Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the eye.
An ophthalmologist specialises in eyes. He knows about the various structures and functions in and around the eye. He treats all kinds of injuries and disorders of the eye, eyelid and eye muscles. Cataracts (a lens disorder), glaucoma (pressure in the eye) and strabismus (squint) are among the best-known disorders.
Specialist equipment is used to check the patient’s vision or the pressure inside his eye, amongst other things. The results of these tests help the ophthalmologist to reach a diagnosis and choose a method of treatment. He will then show the patient how to apply it.
An ophthalmologist can carry out operations on the eye such as corneal transplantation or lens replacement if he has received further training in ophthalmic surgery. Present-day eye operations use the latest techniques, such as lasers or microsurgery, to ensure that the surgical intervention is precise and meticulous.