Oftalmologer

Oftalmologer are medical doctors who specialize in the medical and surgical care of the eye and visual system. They diagnose and treat eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and manage vision impairment. In countries where the term is used, oftalmologer may refer to ophthalmologists collectively.

To become an oftalmolog, one completes medical school and a residency in ophthalmology, followed by optional fellowships in subspecialties. Certification processes vary by country but commonly involve board examinations and ongoing continuing medical education. Practitioners may work in hospitals, eye clinics, or academic centers and collaborate with optometrists and other eye care professionals.

They treat cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, corneal diseases, uveitis, refractive errors, pediatric eye conditions, and orbital or lid disorders. Diagnostic tools include slit-lamp examination, ophthalmoscopy, tonometry, perimetry, imaging like OCT and retinal photography. Treatments include medical therapy (eye drops, systemic medications), laser procedures, scleral buckling, intravitreal injections, cataract extraction, and refractive surgery.

Subspecialties include pediatric ophthalmology, retina, cornea, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastics, and ocular oncology. The modern field developed in the 19th century with advancement in eye examination and surgical techniques; the ophthalmoscope and microsurgical instruments expanded capabilities.