Retina specialist examining patient's eyes with medical instruments in a clinic

When it comes to eye health, there are many medical professionals who can provide care and treatment. Two terms that patients may hear are “retina specialist” and “ophthalmologist”. Some patients ask, “Is a retina specialist also an ophthalmologist?”

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye health. They can perform eye exams, diagnose eye conditions, prescribe medications, and perform eye surgeries. Ophthalmologists receive extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of the many conditions that affect the eye, including many diseases that involve the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye.

A retina specialist is a type of ophthalmologist who has completed additional training and specialization in the diagnosis and treatment of retinal conditions. This includes diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and many others. Retina specialists have advanced training in using specialized tools and techniques to diagnose and treat retinal conditions, including laser surgery, intravitreal injections, and vitreoretinal surgery.

While all retina specialists are ophthalmologists, not all ophthalmologists are retina specialists. This means that while an ophthalmologist may be qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions, they may not have the specialized training needed to provide the best care for retinal conditions. Take a look at this infographic which describes the extensive training involved in becoming an ophthalmologist and the additional training required to become a retina specialist.

If you have concerns or issues specifically related to your retina or vitreous, it is recommended to seek out the care of a qualified retina specialist. They can provide the expertise and specialized care needed to effectively manage and treat retinal conditions, and help you maintain optimal eye health.

To schedule an appointment with a retina specialist at Front Range Retina call (720) 828-3937