When Is It Time to See an Eye Surgeon?
You may not think much about going to the eye doctor until you have a problem. But for some vision-related issues, seeing an eye surgeon can be the right choice. So how do you know when it’s time to seek out this specialized care?
Sometimes, a regular optometrist isn’t enough—especially regarding eye surgery. If you’re having vision problems, it’s important to know when to visit an eye surgeon. In this article, we’ll look at the signs that you should see an eye surgeon and the benefits of doing so.
What is an Eye Surgeon?
Before we get into the signs of when to see an eye surgeon, it’s important to understand what this type of specialist is.
An eye surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in treating and diagnosing the eyes. They focus on conditions that require surgery, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal diseases. Eye surgeons are highly trained and knowledgeable in the latest technologies and treatments for vision-related problems.
They also have access to special equipment and diagnostic tools that general optometrists or ophthalmologists may not have. You may also know them as oculoplastic surgeons specializing in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the eyes and surrounding structures.
When To Seek Help From an Eye Surgeon
Certain signs indicate it’s time to see an eye surgeon. Here are a few:
Blurry or double vision
Our vision should be sharp and clear, with no double images or blurriness. If you’re seeing double or experiencing blurriness, it could be a sign of a serious eye issue. This can be caused by cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye problems. An eye surgeon will assess your vision and determine the best course of treatment.
Abnormal eye discharge or redness
If you’re experiencing any kind of discharge from your eyes, such as pus or thick mucus, it’s best to consult an eye surgeon. This could be caused by infection or inflammation and should be checked out immediately. Redness in the eyes is also a sign that something may be wrong. You should never ignore these symptoms and should seek professional medical advice.
Experiencing pain in or around the eyes
Eye pain can indicate infection, inflammation, glaucoma, or other eye issues. The pain may be localized around the eye or spread to other parts of the face. If you’re experiencing any discomfort around your eyes—including headaches or soreness—it’s best to see an eye surgeon as soon as possible.
Seeing halos or flashes of light
Seeing halos or flashes of light around objects can be a sign of several serious eye conditions. This could indicate an infection, inflammation, or even retinal detachment. If you see these types of visuals, it’s important to consult an eye surgeon right away.
Unexplained changes in vision
The vision of the eye can change over time due to aging or other factors. But if your vision is changing unexpectedly, it could be the result of an underlying eye condition. For example, you may notice that your vision is getting blurrier, or you may have a sudden decrease in night vision. These changes could be an indication of macular degeneration, cataracts, or glaucoma. An eye surgeon can help to diagnose the cause of these changes and develop a treatment plan.
Experiencing unusually sensitive eyes
Our eyes are built to be tough, but they can also become overly sensitive. If you’re noticing that your eyes are irritated more easily than usual, and you’re having difficulty keeping them open in bright light, it’s best to see an eye surgeon. This could be a sign of infection or inflammation and should be addressed promptly.
Benefits of Seeing an Eye Surgeon
Seeing an eye surgeon offers several benefits. Here are a few:
Early diagnosis and treatment
Eye surgeons have the equipment, knowledge, and experience to make accurate diagnoses quickly. This is important for early catching any potential issues so treatment can start immediately. Early detection can also help to prevent more serious problems in the future.
Access to specialty care
Eye surgeons have extensive medical training and access to more advanced treatments than general optometrists or ophthalmologists. They specialize in eye care and can provide targeted solutions for vision-related issues that may not be available elsewhere. They also have access to the latest medical technologies, which can be very helpful in treating more complicated cases.
Safety and quality of results
Eye surgeons are experts in their field and have the necessary skills to perform eye procedures safely and precisely. They understand how delicate the eyes are and take special care to ensure that any procedure is done correctly, resulting in better patient outcomes.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing changes in your vision that don’t seem to improve, it’s probably time to consider visiting an eye surgeon. From cataract removal and intraocular lens replacements to glaucoma management and corneal transplants, eye surgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of ocular health conditions.
Plus, they can provide you with the latest technology and information to help ensure that your vision remains as sharp and clear as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late – make an appointment today with a qualified eye surgeon and protect your eyesight for years.
Dr. Joseph Cohen O.D.
Woodland Hills Optometrist
Receive an Excellent Service and Comprehensive Eye Care
(818) 345-3937
Providing service in English and Farsi
19737 Ventura Blvd., Suite 201, Woodland Hills, CA 91364