FL
A 59-year-old male asked:
Who should i see in order to receive a basic eye exam eyeglass prescription--an ophthalmologist or optometrist?
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in

Dr. Richard Bensingeranswered
Ophthalmology 54 years experience
Ophthalmologist: The difference in training and knowledge is impressive. I always liken the contrast as that between a lawyer (ophthalmologist) and a legal assistant ( optometrist). You will get an in depth examination, eyeglass prescription and thorough background of knowledge from the ophthalmologist. The optom with limited training is focused on product -selling glasses and contact lenses.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Dean Bonsallanswered
Pediatric Ophthalmology 29 years experience
Optom: Optometrist would be good place to start.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Harold Peltan commented
Ophthalmology 30 years experience
If you have never had an exam, an ophthalmologist would be good. If you have at least once seen an ophthalmologist, and all you need is a glasses prescription, then an optometrist should be fine.
Sep 5, 2013
Last updated Dec 1, 2020
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