An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats eye diseases, and they also perform surgery and prescribe glasses or contacts. Optometrists perform routine vision exams, but ophthalmologists manage conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Before you book an appointment, review a few specific factors about each doctor and practice. This is what to look for:
Surgical Expertise
Surgical experience varies widely among ophthalmologists. Some doctors focus on medical management, and others perform hundreds of procedures each year. If you need surgery, ask how often the doctor performs your specific procedure. Two major eye surgeries are cataract surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). When you meet a surgeon, ask which MIGS devices they use and why. These surgeries may include:
- Cataract surgery: The surgeon removes the clouded natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
- MIGS: The surgeon places tiny devices or creates small openings to improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.
Board-certified Doctors
A board-certified ophthalmologist has passed written and oral exams, which are administered by the American Board of Ophthalmology. This process follows medical school and several years of postgraduate training. Certified doctors complete ongoing education, and they must renew their certification on a regular schedule. You can check a doctor’s status for free on the board’s website.
Advanced Diagnostics
Modern diagnostic equipment helps doctors detect eye disease at early stages. Since conditions like glaucoma often cause no early symptoms, regular testing gives doctors a baseline for comparison. Some practices offer tests on-site, and others send patients to outside imaging centers. Ask about these two tests in particular:
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This scan creates cross-section images of the retina and optic nerve.
- Visual field perimetry: This test maps your peripheral vision as you respond to small flashes of light.
OCT measures the thickness of nerve fiber layers, and perimetry shows blind spots in your side vision. Doctors typically use both tests together to track glaucoma over time. Ask how often the practice recommends repeat testing for your condition. If a practice keeps your past scans on file, your doctor can compare results across visits.
Patient-centered Care
Patient-centered care means the doctor involves you in decisions about your treatment. A patient-centered doctor explains diagnoses in plain terms, and they answer your questions without rushing. During your first visit, watch for this approach; your doctor should walk you through each treatment option and its risks.
Practical details also affect your experience. Check the office hours, and try to confirm your insurance coverage with the front desk. Since dilating drops blur your vision for several hours, you may need a ride home after an exam.
Some practices offer online portals, and patients use them to view test results and send messages. When a practice has multiple specialists, you may receive retina or cornea care in one location. Ask about communication and wait times.
Find Ophthalmologists Near You
Once you have a short list of local ophthalmologists, compare their surgical experience, credentials, and diagnostic tools. Call each office with your questions before scheduling. Your primary care doctor or optometrist may offer referrals, and your insurance provider keeps a list of in-network specialists. Use an online directory to search for ophthalmologists near you.
