Consult Ophthalmologists Online - Eye Specialists (117 doctors)

Ophthalmology

Booking an appointment with a top ophthalmologist is now easier than ever with Apollo 24|7. Our user-friendly platform allows you to schedule an online or in-person consultation with a trusted eye specialist at your convenience. With a wide network of experienced ophthalmologists and well-equipped clinics, Apollo 24|7 ensures that you receive the best eye care possible. Don't let vision problems go unaddressed – book your appointment with an expert ophthalmologist today and take the first step towards better eye health.

What is Ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye. Encompassing a wide range of conditions affecting vision and the ocular system, this speciality plays a critical role in healthcare, contributing to both preventative care and the management of acute and chronic eye conditions. 

As a vital medical field, ophthalmology not only addresses common issues like refractive errors and cataracts but also deals with complex diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. The relevance of this speciality lies in its capacity to improve quality of life by preserving and enhancing vision, which is essential for daily functioning and overall well being.

Who is an Ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in eye and vision care. They are uniquely qualified to provide a comprehensive service that includes the diagnosis and management of eye diseases, performing eye surgery, and prescribing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems. 

Most ophthalmologists undergo a minimum of five years of speciality training after medical school, which equips them with the expertise to handle a range of conditions from minor eye infections to complex surgical procedures involving the eye. 

Their clinical practice is crucial for the early detection of serious eye conditions, managing ongoing issues, and providing surgical interventions when necessary. Ophthalmologists are integral to the prevention of blindness and the treatment of vision impairment, making them indispensable in the field of healthcare.

What Does an Ophthalmologist Do?

An ophthalmologist’s key responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, from diagnosing eye diseases to performing intricate surgeries. Below are the detailed aspects of their daily activities and the type of care they provide:

• Diagnosis of Eye Conditions: Ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools to detect and monitor eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further deterioration of vision.

• Surgical Procedures: They perform surgical interventions to treat various eye conditions. This includes procedures like cataract removal, corrective surgeries for refractive errors, and emergency surgeries for retinal detachment.

• Prescribing Medication: Ophthalmologists prescribe medications to treat a variety of eye conditions, including infections, inflammations, and chronic diseases like glaucoma.

• Routine Eye Care: They provide regular eye examinations and vision care, essential for maintaining good eye health and detecting issues at an early stage.

• Patient Education: Educating patients about eye care, disease prevention, and the management of chronic eye conditions is a significant part of their role.

Through these activities, ophthalmologists ensure comprehensive eye care, enhancing and preserving vision, which is vital for maintaining quality of life and independence in daily activities.

What are the Other Sub-specialities of Ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology encompasses a variety of sub-specialities that allow eye doctors to focus on specific areas of eye care. Each sub-speciality addresses unique aspects of ocular health and requires specialised training. Here’s an overview of the key sub-specialities within ophthalmology:

• Anterior Segment: This sub-speciality deals with conditions affecting the front portion of the eye, including the iris, cornea, and lens. Specialists in this area often manage cases involving cataracts, corneal injuries, and refractive errors.

• Paediatric Ophthalmology: Focused on eye diseases and care in children, this sub-speciality deals with the diagnosis and treatment of congenital and hereditary eye issues. It is vital for managing strabismus, amblyopia, and genetic ocular disorders.

• Neuro-Ophthalmology: This area bridges the gap between neurology and ophthalmology, dealing with visual problems that are related to the nervous system. Such conditions include optic nerve problems, visual field loss, and visual disturbances caused by brain injuries or diseases.

• Oculoplastics: This involves surgical procedures that address the eyelids, tear ducts, and other structures around the eye. Oculoplastic surgeons perform reconstructive surgery, enhancing both function and aesthetic appearance.

• Medical Retina: Specialists in this field, known as retina specialists, focus on treating conditions affecting the retina and vitreous, primarily through non-surgical methods. They manage diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal vascular diseases.

• Surgical Retina: Unlike medical retina specialists, these professionals perform surgeries to fix problems like retinal detachments, complex diabetic eye disease, and macular holes.

• Cornea: Specialists in the cornea treat diseases of the cornea, sclera, and episcleral. They manage conditions like keratoconus, corneal ulcers, and perform corneal transplants.

• Refractive Surgery: This sub-speciality focuses on correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism using surgical interventions like LASIK, which helps reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

• Ophthalmic Pathology: An eye specialist in this field examines tissue samples from the eye and its adnexa. The role is crucial for diagnosing diseases and guiding treatment strategies based on microscopic findings.

• Glaucoma: A glaucoma specialist provides treatment for glaucoma, a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve and can lead to blindness. This sub-speciality is crucial for the early detection and ongoing management of the disease.

• Uveitis: An uveitis doctor deals with inflammatory diseases affecting the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which can lead to severe eye pain and vision loss if not treated promptly.

Understanding these sub-specialities helps in appreciating the breadth of skills and services provided by ophthalmologists, enhancing overall eye care and management of specific ocular diseases.

What are the Ophthalmology Examinations or Tests Performed by the Ophthalmologist?

Ophthalmologists utilise a range of diagnostic tests and examinations to assess eye health and diagnose conditions accurately. Here are some of the most common procedures they perform:

• Visual Acuity Test: This basic test measures the sharpness of vision. It involves reading letters on a chart positioned at a specific distance. This test is essential for determining the clarity of vision and the need for vision correction.

• Tonometry: This test measures the intraocular pressure, which is crucial for diagnosing and managing glaucoma. High pressure inside the eye can indicate a risk of glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss if untreated.

• Fundoscopy (Ophthalmoscopy): During this examination, an ophthalmologist uses an ophthalmoscope to look at the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This test is vital for detecting conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and symptoms of diabetes.

• Slit-lamp Examination: This test provides a magnified view of the structures at the front of the eye, including the eyelid, sclera, conjunctiva, iris, and lens. It is crucial for identifying infections, cataracts, corneal ulcers, and other abnormalities.

• Pupil Dilation: By dilating the pupils with special drops, the specialist can examine the retina and optic nerve more comprehensively. This procedure is essential for a thorough assessment of the eye’s interior, allowing the detection of conditions such as retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

• Corneal Topography: This test maps the curve of the cornea and can be particularly helpful for planning refractive surgery or fitting contact lenses.

• Fluorescein Angiography: This diagnostic procedure uses a fluorescent dye that is injected into the bloodstream to highlight the blood vessels in the back of the eye. This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusions, or macular degeneration.

Each of these examinations plays a crucial role in maintaining ocular health and preventing the progression of eye diseases. If you’re experiencing any issues with your eyes, it’s advisable to book ophthalmologist appointment for a comprehensive evaluation.

What are the Common Conditions & Diseases that Ophthalmologists Treat?

Ophthalmologists are specialists who diagnose and manage a variety of eye conditions, focusing on both acute symptoms and chronic diseases. Here are the top 15 conditions they frequently treat:

1. Refractive Errors: Inaccuracies in how the eye focuses light, causing blurred vision. Includes myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

2. Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's lens, leading to decreased vision.

3. Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often associated with high intraocular pressure.

4. Macular Degeneration: A disease that deteriorates the central portion of the retina, impairing central vision.

5. Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the retina's blood vessels caused by diabetes.

6. Conjunctivitis: Inflammation or infection of the outer membrane of the eyeball and eyelid.

7. Corneal Diseases: Conditions affecting the cornea, including keratitis and corneal ulcers.

8. Uveitis: Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.

9. Retinal Detachment: An emergency where the retina pulls away from its normal position.

10. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Reduced vision in one eye caused by abnormal visual development early in life.

11. Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): Misalignment of the eyes, where they do not look at the same place at the same time.

12. Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids, causing red, itchy eyelids and the formation of dandruff-like scales.

13. Ocular Herpes: A viral infection of the eye that can recur, causing sores on the eyelid or surface of the eye.

14. Dry Eye Syndrome: A chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye.

15. Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with visual loss.

These conditions range from common irritations to serious diseases that can lead to vision loss if untreated.

Reasons to See an Ophthalmologist

Consulting an ophthalmologist is crucial when experiencing specific symptoms or medical concerns that affect your eyes. Key reasons include:

• Vision Changes: Such as sudden vision loss, blurriness, double vision, or seeing flashes of light.

• Eye Pain or Redness: Persistent discomfort or unusual redness which could indicate infection or inflammation.

• Eye Injuries: Any form of physical injury to the eye requires immediate professional assessment.

• Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease should regularly consult an ophthalmologist.

• Routine Checks: Regular eye examinations are essential for maintaining optimal eye health, especially as you age.

For those unable to visit a clinic, an online ophthalmologist consultation offers a convenient way to seek advice and get preliminary diagnoses.

What Types of Procedures do Ophthalmologists Perform?

Ophthalmologists are trained to perform a range of therapies and surgeries to treat various eye conditions. Below, the procedures are divided into top therapies and top surgeries within the speciality:

Top Therapies in Ophthalmology

1. Laser Photocoagulation: A laser is used to treat retinal tears or diabetic retinopathy by sealing leaking blood vessels.

2. Intravitreal Injections: Medications are injected into the vitreous near the retina to treat conditions like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.

3. Photodynamic Therapy: A light-activated drug is used in combination with laser light to destroy abnormal blood vessels in the eye.

4. Corneal Cross-linking: Ultraviolet light and vitamin B2 drops are used to strengthen the cornea in patients with keratoconus.

5. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty: A laser treatment for open-angle glaucoma that improves the drainage of eye fluids.

6. Orthoptic Treatments: Exercises and other non-surgical methods used to treat disorders like strabismus and amblyopia.

Top Surgeries in Ophthalmology

1. Cataract Surgery: The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one to restore vision.

2. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A laser reshapes the cornea, correcting refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia.

3. Vitrectomy: Removal of the vitreous gel to treat severe diabetic retinopathy or retinal detachment.

4. Keratoplasty (Corneal Transplant): Damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with donated corneal tissue.

5. Glaucoma Surgery: Procedures like trabeculectomy or shunt implantation to relieve intraocular pressure and prevent optic nerve damage.

6. Retinal Detachment Surgery: Surgical procedures to reattach the retina to the back of the eye.

7. Oculoplastic Surgery: Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery involving the eyelids, orbit, and lacrimal system.

8. Ectropion and Entropion Repair: Surgery to correct eyelids that roll inward or outward abnormally.

Each of these procedures requires specific expertise and precision, reflecting the complex nature of eye health management. Patients considering these treatments should discuss the ophthalmologist fee and other relevant details to make informed decisions about their eye care.

Why Choose an Apollo 24|7 Ophthalmologist?

Apollo 24|7 ophthalmologists are highly skilled and experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of eye conditions. Our eye specialists are dedicated to providing personalised care, tailoring treatment plans to each patient's unique needs and medical history. 

With access to state-of-the-art technology and the latest surgical techniques, our ophthalmologists deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.

At Apollo 24|7, we offer seamless access to expert eye care, with the convenience of online consultations and in-clinic appointments. Our user-friendly platform allows patients to book appointments easily, access their medical records, and receive comprehensive eye care from the comfort of their homes. 

With a focus on patient-centred care and a commitment to excellence, Apollo 24|7 ophthalmologists are the ideal choice for all your eye health needs.

What to Expect When Visiting an Ophthalmologist?

Visiting an ophthalmologist involves a thorough assessment of your eye health to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Here's what you can typically expect:

• Initial Consultation: The visit usually starts with a discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, and any specific concerns you might have.

• Comprehensive Eye Examination: Expect various tests to assess vision clarity, eye pressure, internal and external eye health, and overall visual function.

• Diagnosis and Planning: Based on the examination results, the ophthalmologist will diagnose any conditions and discuss potential treatment options or further testing if needed.

• Follow-up: Treatment plans may include medication, therapy, or surgery, with follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatments as necessary.

Before scheduling an appointment, it might be useful to read ophthalmologist reviews to choose a doctor who best meets your needs. Also, searching for an ophthalmologist near me can help you find a conveniently located specialist, making your visits easier to manage.

How Can I Get an Appointment With an Ophthalmologist?

To book an appointment with an Apollo 24|7 ophthalmologist, you have several convenient options:

• Online Booking: Visit the Apollo 24|7 website and navigate to the "Ophthalmology" section. Select your preferred ophthalmologist and choose a suitable date and time for your appointment.

• Mobile App: Download the Apollo 24|7 mobile app, available for both Android and iOS devices. Log in or create an account, search for "Ophthalmology," and book your appointment with just a few taps.

• Offline Booking: Call the Apollo 24|7 helpline to speak with a representative who will assist you in scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist at your nearest Apollo hospital or clinic.

• Doctor Referrals: If you have been referred to an ophthalmologist by another healthcare provider, simply inform the Apollo 24|7 staff while booking your appointment to ensure a seamless experience.