What Does an Ophthalmologist Treat?
How do you know which kind of eye doctor you should see? Different types of eye specialists treat different conditions. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eyes. They can diagnose and treat eye conditions and perform eye surgeries. Some ophthalmologists specialize in vision correction surgeries.
What is an Ophthalmologist?
An ophthalmologist has a medical degree with advanced studies in their specialization. Ophthalmologists have medical and surgical training in a wide range of eye conditions. Ophthalmologists may participate in medical research projects. They can refer you to another doctor if they recognize a medical problem that needs different treatment.
What Does an Ophthalmologist Treat?
Ophthalmologists are the most highly trained medical eye professionals so they can treat all eye conditions. However, many ophthalmologists specialize in certain areas so that they can focus more directly. Conditions often treated by ophthalmologists include:
- Refractive Errors – blurry vision due to light not focusing on the retina
- Cataracts – a normal age-related clouding of the lenses that obstruct vision
- Glaucoma – an increase in pressure within the eye that can damage the optic nerve
- Macular Degeneration – progressive damage to the retina that causes vision loss
- Strabismus – a condition where the eyes do not align and appear to squint
- Amblyopia – problems with development in one eye, often called a “lazy eye”
- Retinal Problems – various health concerns that affect the retina and its nerves
- Corneal Problems – health issues affecting the clear layer at the front of the eye
- Eye Injuries – injury to the eye from trauma, a scrape, or other accident
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We’d love to help you get all the information you need in order to make the best choice for your eyes. Request a consultation today! Our staff is available and happy to answer your every question.
What is Dr. Senekal’s Specialty as an Ophthalmologist?
Dr. Senekal chose refractive eye surgery as a specialty after having the procedure over 25 years ago. Along with his medical degree, he has a Master’s Degree in Ophthalmology and an Advanced Post-Graduate Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Dr. Senekal continues to focus on refractive procedures like laser eye surgery. He also offers other procedures for the benefit of Visionmax guests, including treatment for dry eye. Dr. Senekal can diagnose and treat medical conditions or refer you to a specialist colleague. He will refer you to one of our optometry partners for routine eye care, prescription lenses, and other treatments.
When Should I See an Ophthalmologist?
If you notice any signs of health problems with your eyes, you should schedule an appointment with an eye care specialist immediately. You may need to see an ophthalmologist if you have blurry vision, dark spots, or similar problems. Rapid vision loss or a significant eye injury is a medical emergency, and we recommend that you see a doctor immediately.
Take the Next Step
To learn more about ophthalmology, please schedule your consultation by either filling out the form on this page or by calling (780) 452-4111. We look forward to helping you!
