Ophthalmology

This branch of medicine deals with comprehensive medical and surgical care of the eye and visual system. Conditions commonly treated medically or surgically by an ophthalmologist include vitreoretinal disease, cornea disease, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts.

An ophthalmologist also treats infections and allergies, performs vision examinations and prescribes optical aids, such as glasses and contacts.

An ophthalmologist requires up to eight years of education and training to become board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. This education includes four years of medical school and a one-year internship in surgery, neurology, family practice or internal medicine, followed by three to four years in a residency program.

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