An ophthalmologist is a healthcare professional who has been trained to treat eye diseases and other conditions that affect the eyes. They diagnose and treat these issues and can even conduct surgery to help repair certain condition. They also conduct eye exams and help patients find the right glasses or other ways to improve their vision.

Optometry is a medical profession that deals with the eyes and eye health. Optometrists can look at patients’ eyes to address abnormalities or irregularities as well as diagnose diseases of the eye. These doctors may also refer patients to surgeons who can correct eye problems. While optometrists do also focus on helping people find corrective lenses that can improve their vision, their focus extends far beyond glasses and contacts to include overall eye health, including management of eye diseases.