Optometrists cannot perform refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK; these procedures are done by ophthalmologists, who are medical doctors trained in surgery.
However, optometrists play a crucial role in this process. They assess if you’re a good candidate, refer you to the right specialist, and provide pre- and post-operative care.
For example, Dr. Bruce Coward, Optometrist, works closely with ophthalmologists to guide patients through refractive surgery from evaluation to aftercare, ensuring safe and effective results.
Only ophthalmologists (eye doctors) are allowed to perform Lasik eye surgery. they must have has the necessary training and be certified before being allowed to perform the surgery.
An eye surgeon performs surgery on an eye whereas an Optometrist cares for eyes, performs tests and corrections for eyes. For example, if you went to see an Optometrist, he/she would perform tests and offer corrections for your eyes.
Refractive surgery makes it possible for people to see without their glasses. The surgery reshapes the cornea, Lasik is one one of the most popular types of refractive surgery.
Laser refractive cataract surgery is an advanced surgical procedure that uses laser technology to perform cataract surgery with greater precision and accuracy. It involves the use of a laser to make incisions and break up the cloudy lens, making it easier to remove.
An optometrist is just a general eye doctor that can do anything but perform surgery. An ophthalmologist can perform surgery.
Patients with myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or presbyopia, can wear contact lenses or eyeglasses instead of having refractive surgery to improve their refractive errors.
Undercorrection or overcorrection in refractive surgery. Undercorrected refractive surgery patients usually can be treated with an enhancement, but overcorrected patients will need to use eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Optometrists are medical professionals who have received a degree in optometry. They are able to conduct basic eye exams and assist with glass and corrective lens prescriptions. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who are licensed to perform eye surgery as well as all of the services an optometrist offers.
There are many risks to any kind of surgery. Refractive surgery is very risky and you can end up having deformed limbs and even loss of use from the area being operated on.
To perform surgery is to operate.
An optometrist specializes in vision care and is trained to examine, diagnose, and treat various eye conditions, but they do not perform eye surgery. They can prescribe glasses and contact lenses, provide vision therapy, and manage certain eye diseases. In contrast, ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can perform surgical procedures in addition to providing eye care.
Lasik refractive surgery for the eyes has been around for a number of years now and has very little complications. One of them is hemoraging which is common but minor.