Ophthalmology is the medical and surgical specialty focused on eye health, vision and diseases affecting the visual system.

Scope of the specialty

Ophthalmologists diagnose eye conditions, prescribe treatment and may perform surgery. Their work can include cataracts, glaucoma, retinal disease, eye injuries and complications linked to wider health conditions. Optometrists and opticians have different but complementary roles, depending on local regulation.

Assessment and treatment

An eye examination may evaluate visual acuity, eye pressure, pupil responses and structures inside the eye. Treatment can range from monitoring and corrective lenses to medicine or surgery. The appropriate approach depends on diagnosis rather than symptoms alone.

Protecting vision

Routine examinations may be important for people with risk factors, while sudden vision loss, severe eye pain or a chemical injury needs urgent attention. A background explanation of near- and farsightedness can help distinguish common focusing errors. See our cardiology introduction for another overview of a medical specialty.

Eye-care roles and common examinations

Eye care often involves a team. An optometrist commonly provides vision examinations and may detect conditions that need referral; an optician prepares and fits eyewear from a prescription. Ophthalmologists are physicians with medical and surgical training. During an examination, dilating drops may be used to inspect the retina and optic nerve, while other tests assess eye pressure, focusing or the visual field. Screening schedules are not identical for everyone. Age, diabetes, family history, previous injury and existing eye disease can change how often professional assessment is appropriate.