The 3 O’s of Eyecare
Optician
Opticians are eye wear professionals but they are not doctors. They are trained technicians who specialize in filling prescriptions for eyeglasses, which includes assembling, fitting and selling them. Some opticians also sell contact lenses.
Optometrist
Optometrists are doctors who provide many of the same services as ophthalmologists, such as performing complete eye exams, evaluating your vision, prescribing corrective lenses, diagnosing common eye disorders and treating selected eye diseases with medications.
Ophthalmologists
Ophthalmologists are eye surgeons who can provide more specialized eye care. Their specialty can range from cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and more. The main difference between ophthalmologists and optometrists is that ophthalmologists are licensed to perform surgery, while optometrists are licensed to only practice medicine.