Dr. Anjana Karunakaran

If you have a severe eye condition, such as cataracts, a glaucoma diagnosis, macular degeneration, retinal diseases, or diabetic eye disease, or if you require eye surgery, you should see an ophthalmologist. An optometrist will spend time with you to correct your vision and may conduct a routine eye exam. In contrast, an ophthalmologist can provide a higher level of medical care and perform surgery.

• Cataracts and cataract surgery
• Glaucoma
• Retinal diseases (e.g. diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration)
• Corneal diseases and injuries
• Refractive errors (LASIK, PRK)
• Pediatric eye conditions (e.g. lazy eye, strabismus)
• Eye trauma/disease and eye infections
• Ocular tumors and uveitis

Yes, ophthalmologists are the only eye doctor specialists trained to do surgical procedures, such as cataract removal, LASIK, retinal surgery, corneal transplants, and glaucoma surgeries.

• Adults with no symptoms should have their eyes checked every 2 years starting at age 40.
• Children should have at least one eye exam before school, as recommended.
• People with diabetes, those with hypertension, or those with a family history of eye disease should have their eyes examined annually.
• People aged 60 years and above should be examined annually.

• Ophthalmologist: A medical professional who can diagnose and treat eye disease, perform surgery, and prescribe glasses and/or contact lenses.
• Optometrist: A professional who can test vision, prescribe glasses, and detect some eye conditions, but cannot perform surgery.
• Optician: A professional who can fit and dispense glasses and contact lenses, but cannot diagnose or treat eye problems.