There are several reasons for this, including: Therefore, most prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses are written by ODs. Which eye doctor to chooseįor routine eye exams and contact lens fittings, most people choose an optometrist.

READ MORE about pediatric ophthalmologists. Other childhood eye and vision problems (e.g., congenital cataracts) The surgical treatment of misaligned eyes ( strabismus) Vision therapy to treat lazy eye (amblyopia), binocular vision problems and learning-related vision problems.Ī pediatric ophthalmologist typically specializes in: The normal development of vision in children SEE RELATED: Neuro-ophthalmologists and retina specialists Pediatric eye doctorĪ pediatric eye doctor, also called a children’s eye doctor or a kids' eye doctor, can be an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.Ī pediatric optometrist typically specializes in:

May specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of a specific eye disease (e.g., glaucoma) or part of the eye (e.g., retina) Is trained and licensed to perform eye and vision surgery Has more comprehensive training in the medical care and management of eye health problems Ophthalmologists are medical eye doctors who are licensed to perform eye surgery.Įarn a four-year college degree in the sciencesĪttend medical school and earn a four-year doctorate degree to become a physician (MD or DO)Ĭomplete a three-year residency in the medical and surgical care of the eyeĪn ophthalmologist can provide all the services an optometrist (OD) provides, and:

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