Ophthalmologist vs Optometrist vs Optician: What's the Difference?

Updated: Sep 21

Have you ever wondered, "What’s the difference between an ophthalmologist, optometrist, and optician?" It can be confusing since all three start with "op," and a quick Google search doesn't always help clarify things.

These three professions, often called the "3 O’s" of eye care, share some similarities but also have key differences. In this article, Dr. Ryan Corte explains the distinct roles of ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians.

Note: These descriptions apply to the United States and may vary in other regions of the world.

Ophthalmologist vs Optometrist vs Optician - Ophthalmologists are primary eye surgeons

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in the medical and surgical care of your eye health and visual system. Out of the 3 O’s of eye care, ophthalmologists have the highest level of training and the largest scope of practice.

After medical school, ophthalmologists complete residency training and are required to obtain board certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology. In addition, many ophthalmologists choose to do a 1 – 2 year fellowship. When all is said and done, it takes about 12 – 14 years of education after high school to become an ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologists have the benefit of practicing comprehensive eye care or focusing in on a sub-specialty. In fact, some ophthalmologists have more than one sub-specialty of the eye including cornea, glaucoma, retina, pediatrics, neurology, uveitis, plastic surgery, and cancer. Also, ophthalmologists are trained in all aspects of the human body and visual system.

As a result, it’s easiest to think of ophthalmologists as your primary eye surgeons.

For example, if you were having LASIK surgery, cataract surgery or a retinal detachment repair performed, you would see an ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologist vs Optometrist vs Optician - optometrists are primary eye doctors

What is an optometrist?

An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (OD) who specializes in the primary and medical care of your eyes and visual system. Out of the 3 O’s of eye care, optometrists have the second-highest level of training and a growing scope of practice.

In general, optometrists complete 4 years of undergrad and 4 years of optometry school. In addition, many optometrists do an optional 1 – 2 year residency or fellowship. Add it up and that’s a minimum of 8 – 10 years of education after high school.

Also, optometrists manage most diseases of the eye, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, evaluate how your eyes work together, and assist with visual impairments all so you can live your life to the fullest.

Due to state law, the scope of medical care that can be provided by an optometrist varies in each state. In fact, as of this article, optometrists perform eye surgery in 9 states (this list grows each year)! With this in mind, optometrists are trained in virtually all aspects of the eye and visual system.

Overall, it’s easiest to think of optometrists as your primary eye doctors.

For example, if you had dry, irritated eyes or were looking to be fit with contact lenses, you could see an optometrist.

Ophthalmologist vs Optometrist vs Optician - opticians are eyeglass specialists

What is an optician?

An optician is a skilled individual trained to help you select your eyeglass frames and lenses. Unlike ophthalmologists and optometrists, opticians are not eye doctors. Instead, opticians make sure all your lens options and measurements reflect what has been prescribed by your eye doctor!

Did you know opticians are also able to sell contact lenses with a valid doctor’s prescription?

Also, while some opticians obtain their skills through on the job training, many states require their opticians to become licensed dispensing opticians (LDOs). In fact, LDOs are required to pass a series of exams based on specialized education or extensive experience.

Overall, it’s easiest to think of opticians as your eyeglass specialists.

For example, if you were looking to buy new, trendy frames or discuss lens options, you could see an optician.