It is easy to confuse the fields of ophthalmology with optometry. After all, they both deal with eye health and wellness don’t they? Yes, but there is one key difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist: a medical degree. Ophthalmology is a medical branch that is concerned with the anatomy, pathology, and overall physiology of the eye. In order to become an ophthalmologist, one must obtain a medical degree. It is a specialist field that extends beyond the superficial. Sure, ophthalmologists can treat minor conditions but they also perform surgical procedures that can correct eye issues. Optometrists do not need a medical degree and cannot perform surgery.

The number of years an ophthalmologist must spend on their degree can vary wildly from country to country. For the most part, it can take up to 5 years of specialized education and training after receiving a bachelor’s degree. Since there are so many specialties of ophthalmology, schooling can take a longer or shorter amount of time. All that matters is that at the end of it all, they obtain that illustrious medical degree and are highly specialized in their field. This is why if you are facing serious eye issues, you’ll want to go with an ophthalmologist rather than an optometrist.