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Our Profession

What We Are:

Medical doctors (M.D.s) specializing in the care of the human eye. We are specially trained to deal with the eye and its disorders and diseases. We have four (4) years of college, four (4) years of medical school, one (1) year minimum of hospital internship and three (3) or more years of specialized in-hospital training.

Is there a difference between an Ophthalmologist and an Optometrist?

Yes, there is! To better understand the differences, go to the Definitions page.

As ophthalmologists (oph-thal-mol-o-gists), we diagnose and treat all visual problems. We prescribe whatever eye treatment is necessary, including the fitting of eyeglasses, contact lenses, optical aids for the partially sighted and even eye exercises. In other words, we provide all services for eye health care. Here are just some of the things we do as medical doctors (ophthalmologists or EyeM.D.s.):

  • Cataract Surgery
  • Refractive Surgeries
    (example: RK, PRK, Lasik Corneal Rings, INtacs, etc.)
  • Examine eyes and prescribe glasses and/or contacts
  • Treat blurred vision
  • Strabismus
  • Crossed eyes
  • Retinal Detachments
  • Burns and foreign bodies in the eye
  • Treat and manage Diabetic Retinopathy
  • Treat and manage Glaucoma
  • Treat and manage Macular Degeneration

©2006 Tennessee Academy of Ophthalmology
P. O. Box 681806
Franklin, TN 37068-1806
Phone: 615-794-1851 Fax: 615-791-6032
Email: [email protected]
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