Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist: Which Eye Doctor Do You Need?

Optometrist, ophthalmologist, optician. Three words that sound like they were invented to confuse people at parties. They are all eye professionals, but they do different jobs, and knowing which one you need saves you time, money and a wasted trip.

What an optometrist does

An optometrist is a Doctor of Optometry (OD). Optometrists are your primary eye care doctors. They perform comprehensive eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and treat many eye conditions, including dry eye, eye infections, glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. Think of them as the family doctor for your eyes.

At Siegmund Eye Care, Dr. Jason Siegmund and Dr. Cyndi Siegmund-Drenth are both optometrists. Dr. Jason is a Board Certified Optometric Physician trained in the treatment and management of eye disease.

What an ophthalmologist does

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who completed a surgical residency in eye care. Ophthalmologists perform eye surgery, such as cataract surgery, LASIK, retinal procedures and glaucoma surgery, and they manage complex eye disease. Many specialize further in areas like the retina or cornea.

And the optician?

Opticians fit and adjust eyeglasses and help you choose frames and lenses. They do not examine eyes or write prescriptions, but a good optician is the reason your new glasses actually feel right on your face.

Which one should you see?

For most people, the answer is an optometrist first. See an optometrist for:

• Yearly or routine eye exams
• Glasses and contact lens prescriptions
• Red, itchy or irritated eyes, and eye infections
• Dry eye
• Glaucoma and diabetic eye disease screening and management
• Something stuck in your eye

You will usually see an ophthalmologist when you need surgery or highly specialized treatment. In many cases your optometrist refers you and then shares your care with the surgeon. We do exactly that for LASIK, cataract and other eye surgery: we handle the evaluation before and the follow-up after, close to home.

Book with an optometrist in Myrtle Beach

Not sure where your problem fits? Start with us. We will tell you honestly if you need a specialist. Book a comprehensive eye exam, or if something cannot wait, ask about same-day appointments at (843) 796-1155.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an optometrist a real doctor?

Yes. Optometrists earn a Doctor of Optometry degree. They examine, diagnose and treat many eye conditions and prescribe glasses and contacts. They do not perform major eye surgery.

Should I see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist for an eye exam?

For a routine eye exam, an optometrist is the usual choice. Ophthalmologists focus on surgery and complex eye disease.

Do I need a referral to see an ophthalmologist?

It depends on your insurance. Many people start with an optometrist, who refers them to an ophthalmologist when surgery or specialized care is needed.

Can an optometrist treat glaucoma?

Yes. Optometrists diagnose glaucoma and manage it with prescription eye drops and regular monitoring, and coordinate with a specialist if laser treatment or surgery is needed.