Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist: What's the difference?

What is an optometrist?

An optometrist is responsible for your primary eye care. All optometrists have spent four years in a professional program and have a Doctor of Optometry degree. Services optometrists can offer include:
 

• Conducting eye exams, contact lens exams, and refractive exam tests
• Writing eyeglasses and contact lenses prescriptions and performing fittings
• Diagnosing and monitoring eye conditions, such as diabetic retina
• Treating eye conditions like glaucoma and pink eye
• Providing vision therapy

What is an optician?

When it comes to an optometrist vs. an optician, the difference is that opticians aren’t doctors and can’t perform eye exams. They have a one-year degree, certificate, or diploma. Opticians are primarily responsible for filling lens prescriptions written by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Their services include:
 

• Checking and filling lens prescriptions
• Providing, repairing and replacing glasses, frames and contact lenses
• Taking facial measurements
• Providing recommendations for frames and lenses

Pearle Vision has a team of eye care experts working together to ensure you get the best eye care possible. Whether you need to see an eye doctor or fill a prescription for your eyeglasses, we can help. In need of eye care? Make an appointment at your neighborhood Pearle Vision EyeCare Center.