Optometrists vs. Ophthalmologists

Are you confused about when to see an Optometrist versus on Ophthalmologist? There are some significant differences that you should know when it comes to picking a doctor for your vision care. If you have an eye condition that needs the attention of a surgeon, ophthalmologist Ghassan Zein of Beverly Hills Kuwait can provide the most comprehensive care.

What are the main differences between Optometrists and Ophthalmologists?

Optometrists

Optometrists are usually the primary health provider for normal vision problems and yearly checkups. They can diagnose common vision acuity problems like farsightedness and nearsightedness, prescribe corrective eyeglasses, contact lenses, dispense and prescribe certain medication, and test for eye diseases and conditions. However, optometrists have not attended medical school and do not perform any type of surgery. If they see patients that may need more advanced medicine, they refer them to ophthalmologists. Optometrists do not perform eye surgery and are not trained to care for and manage all diseases and disorders of the eyes.

Ophthalmologists

Ophthalmologists are eye doctors that specialize in the medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system, and also the prevention of eye disease and injury. They are doctors of medicine (MD) and have completed four years of pre-medical undergraduate education, four years of medical school, one year of internship, and three or more years of specialized medical and surgical training in eye care. As a qualified specialist, an ophthalmologist is licensed by a state regulatory board to diagnose, treat, and manage conditions affecting the eye and visual system. An ophthalmologist is qualified to deliver total eye care, meaning vision services, eye examinations, medical and surgical eye care, diagnosis and treatment of disease, and visual complications that are caused by other conditions, like diabetes.

Dr. Ghassan Zein, world-renowned ophthalmologist, offers comprehensive eye care to patients with a variety of needs at the Beverly Hills Medical Center Kuwait. As a board-certified surgeon, Dr. Zein specializes in a variety of refractive and cosmetic surgeries and treatments, including:

• Femto-LASIK (bladeless) eye surgery
• PRK
• Cataract surgery
• Strabismus surgery
• Cosmetic eyelid surgery
• Dry eye treatment
• Retinal diseases and surgery

Dr. Zein also offers general eye care, and can assess your eyesight needs at your annual eye exam. Unlike an optometrist, Dr. Zein has extensive experience with a wide-range of eyesight issues, and will be able to both diagnose and treat your individual needs, regardless of the severity of your ocular issue.

Should I See an Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist?

Eye health is the result of a working partnership between you and your eye healthcare provider. Ophthalmologists and optometrists work together and with the patient to ensure good eye health and life-long vision. Whether you choose an optometrist or ophthalmologist, Dr. Zein suggests that you receive an eye exam at least once a year. To ensure a complete assessment of your eye health, Dr. Zein will first evaluate your medical ocular history and any problems you may be having. He will then do a complete examination of every aspect of your eyes, including everything from the retina, optic nerve and pupils, to your eyelids and eyelashes, to ensure nothing goes undetected.

Why should I visit an Ophthalmologist?

While an optometrist can help you with minor eyesight issues, such as adjusting your prescription or giving annual eye exams, an ophthalmologist is your best option for full-service eye care. Experienced Kuwait ophthalmologist Dr. Zein has the training to provide the most comprehensive diagnosis. If your eyesight issue requires treatment, you can receive special care without being referred to another doctor. Dr. Zein can diagnose your ocular issue, and also treat you, all in the same office.

If you already have a medical eye problem such as cataracts or glaucoma, it is important to seek care from an eye doctor who is highly trained and skilled in monitoring and treating your condition. If you have had eye surgery, you can benefit from the ongoing care of the ophthalmologist who performed your surgery. Dr. Zein emphasizes the value of individualized care, and he continues to monitor his patients during recovery in follow-up appointment, and also in annual eye exams for years thereafter.

Remember: only ophthalmologists like Dr. Zein in Kuwait can provide the entire scope of treatment options, including eye surgery, for both minor and complex eye disorders.

Contact Kuwait Ophthalmologist Dr. Zein

Dr. Zein is a world renowned ophthalmologist. Dr. Zein’s primary focus is on patient care, and it is his goal to provide his patients with not only the best treatment that is possible, but also to help create a relaxing and comfortable environment for his patients. Dr. Zein cares about what his patients have to say and answers each and every question thoroughly, as the eye is one of the most important organs in the body.

If you are looking for an eye doctor in Kuwait, contact Dr. Zein today at +(965)-222-89999 to schedule an appointment at the Beverly Hills Medical Center Kuwait.