Comprehensive Ophthalmology

What is an Ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist, also called an "Eye M.D.", is a medical doctor who specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system and in the prevention of eye disease and injury. Ophthalmologists differ from optometrists and opticians in their levels of training and in what they can diagnose and treat. As a medical doctor who has completed college and at least eight years of additional medical training, an ophthalmologist is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats all eye diseases, performs eye surgery and prescribes and fits eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems. Many ophthalmologists are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures for eye diseases and vision disorders.

How do Ophthalmologists become certified?

After four years of college and eight additional years of medical education and training, including fours years of medical school, one year of internship and at least three years of residency, a certified ophthalmologist must pass a rigorous two-part examination given by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Please visit Dr. Matzkin's bio page for more information on his education, training and experience.

What is a subspecialist?

While all ophthalmologists specialize in eye problems and can treat all conditions, some decide to specialize in a specific area of medical or surgical eye care. This person is called a subspecialist. He or she usually completes a fellowship, which is one or two more years of additional training in the chosen area. Common areas of subspecialty include glaucoma, retina, cornea, pediatrics and plastic surgery. Dr. Matzkin completed his fellowship in neuro-ophthalmology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1991.

How does Ophthalmology differ from Optometry?

As a medical doctor, an ophthalmologist is licensed to practice medicine and surgery. An optometrist receives a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and is licensed to practice optometry, not medicine. The practice of optometry traditionally involves examining the eye for the purpose of prescribing and dispensing corrective lenses, screening vision to detect certain eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for certain eye diseases.

How does an Ophthalmologist differ from an Optician?

An optician is trained to design, verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other devices to correct eyesight. They use prescriptions supplied by ophthalmologists or optometrists, but do not test vision or write prescriptions for visual corrections. Opticians are not permitted to diagnose or treat eye diseases.