When it comes to taking care of your vision, there are a number of professionals who can help. Both ophthalmologist and an optician provide services that are meant to support your eyesight no matter your unique situation. And while their titles may sound similar, the services and care they provide are quite different. As are their specializations.

At Raffy’s, we often have clients ask us who they should see for their vision health questions or concerns. So, we wanted to write an in-depth article that looks at how these two professions differ, and help you decide whether you should see an ophthalmologist in White Plains, NY or an optician.

What Does an Ophthalmologist Do?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye-related diseases and conditions. Ophthalmologists perform comprehensive eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, and even perform surgeries to improve vision, like laser eye surgery. Additionally, ophthalmologists often specialize in treating certain areas of eye care, such as glaucoma, cataracts, or pediatric eye disorders.

Ophthalmologists play a vital role in the early detection and management of systemic diseases that can affect the eyes—notably, diabetes and hypertension. By examining blood vessels in the eyes, ophthalmologists can identify signs of these conditions and refer patients for appropriate medical care.

In short, regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist can not only help maintain good eye health, but also contribute to overall health and well-being!

What Does an Optician Do?

An optician is a healthcare professional who designs, fits, and provides corrective lenses for eyeglasses or contact lenses using prescriptions written by ophthalmologists. Opticians may also fit and sell non-prescription glasses, sunglasses, and specialty eyewear.

In addition to fitting and selling corrective lenses, opticians also play an essential role in educating patients on proper eye care and maintenance. Opticians provide advice on lens care, recommend protective eyewear for certain activities, and offer guidance on how to alleviate eye strain. Opticians may also assist in the selection of frames and lenses that best suit a patient's lifestyle and needs.

Overall, opticians are a key part of a typical eye care team, because they help ensure patients receive the best possible vision care and advice.

What Services Do Ophthalmologists Provide?

Ophthalmologists provide a range of services to patients with eye-related conditions. These services may include comprehensive eye exams, prescription of corrective lenses or medication, and surgical procedures. They also treat more serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders.

In addition to these services, ophthalmologists also play a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of eye diseases. They can identify and monitor conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and other age-related eye diseases. Ophthalmologists also work closely with other healthcare professionals to manage eye-related complications in patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

What Services Do Opticians Provide?

Opticians mainly provide services related to the fitting and dispensing of glasses and contact lenses. They use the prescription provided by optometrists and ophthalmologists to create custom-fit eyewear. Opticians also offer consultations on frames and lens coatings to patients, and may help with adjustments and repairs.

How to Choose Between Seeing an Ophthalmologist or Optician in White Plains, NY

Not sure whether you should see an ophthalmologist or optician? First, think about the nature of your eye-related issue. Basic vision issues or problems with your eyewear can be fixed with the help of an optician. More serious vision-related conditions like cataracts, on the other hand, will need the attention of an ophthalmologist.

If you still have questions about the differences between an ophthalmologist and an optician, feel free to reach out to us at Raphael Opticians! We’d be happy to help.