Our 20/20 LASIK Blog

Many people come into our centers and wonder what the difference is between the doctor they've always seen for eye exams and the doctor who will perform their laser vision correction procedure.

A LASIK surgeon is an ophthalmologist and while he or she can absolutely perform eye exams, the person you see for glasses and contact lens exams is most likely an optometrist. Optometrists are qualified to examine, diagnose and treat disorders that affect your vision. After obtaining a bachelor's degree, optometrists attend four more years of graduate school to obtain their degree in optometry.

Ophthalmologists go to undergraduate school, then four years of medical school, then a one-year internship and then up to three years in residency training for ophthalmology. In addition, some go on to do a one to two year fellowship. Not only do ophthalmologists perform routine exams and prescribe lenses, but they are also trained as eye surgeons.

At the 20/20 Institute we employ both optometrists and ophthalmologist and if you already have an optometrist that you like and trust, we can work with him or her during your follow-up care. To learn more about why you choose the 20/20 Institute, please contact us today to schedule a free no-obligation consultation.