Top 25 Ophthalmologists Across the US
Verified from CMS provider data, updated monthly. Click any provider to see credentials, insurance acceptance, and patient resources.
What is an Ophthalmologist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the comprehensive medical and surgical care of the eyes. Unlike optometrists who primarily provide vision care and prescribe glasses, ophthalmologists are physicians who diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery (cataract surgery, LASIK, retinal surgery, glaucoma surgery), prescribe medications, and provide complete eye care from routine exams to complex surgical procedures. Many ophthalmologists subspecialize in areas like retina, cornea, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, or oculoplastics.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an ophthalmologist requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 1 year of general medical or surgical internship
- 3 years of ophthalmology residency training
- Many complete 1-2 year fellowships in subspecialties (retina, cornea, glaucoma, etc.)
- Total of 12-14 years of training beyond a bachelor's degree
- Board certification through the American Board of Ophthalmology
Board Certification: American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). Requires completion of accredited ophthalmology residency and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations covering all aspects of eye disease and surgery. Recertification required every 10 years through continuing medical education and examination. Subspecialty certifications do not exist separately, but fellowship training demonstrates advanced expertise.
When Should You See an Ophthalmologist?
You should consider seeing an ophthalmologist if:
- You have sudden vision loss or vision changes
- You experience eye pain, redness, or discharge
- You see flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain over your vision
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes or other systemic diseases affecting eyes
- You need cataract surgery evaluation or LASIK consultation
- You have glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other chronic eye disease
- Your optometrist refers you for medical or surgical eye care
- You have eye trauma or injury
- You need treatment for dry eyes, corneal disease, or eye infections
- You're due for comprehensive eye exam (annually if over 60 or diabetic)
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Ophthalmologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that ophthalmologists help patients manage.
Cataracts
Clouding of the eye's natural lens causing progressive vision loss. Extremely common with aging, affecting most people over 70. Treated with outpatient surgery to replace cloudy lens with artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Ophthalmologists diagnose cataracts through comprehensive eye exam and slit lamp examination, monitor progression, determine when surgery is needed based on visual impairment, perform phacoemulsification cataract surgery (typically 15-20 minute outpatient procedure), help select appropriate IOL (monofocal, multifocal, toric for astigmatism), manage postoperative care, and achieve improved vision in over 95% of cases.
Glaucoma
Group of eye diseases causing optic nerve damage, usually from elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Can lead to irreversible vision loss and blindness if untreated. Often called 'silent thief of sight' because early stages are asymptomatic.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Ophthalmologists measure IOP with tonometry, assess optic nerve with dilated exam and OCT imaging, perform visual field testing to detect vision loss, diagnose glaucoma type, prescribe IOP-lowering eye drops (prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors), perform laser trabeculoplasty, conduct glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy, tube shunts, MIGS procedures) when medications insufficient, and provide lifelong monitoring.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Progressive deterioration of the macula (central retina) causing central vision loss. Leading cause of vision loss in Americans over 60. Two types: dry (90% of cases) and wet (10%, more severe).
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Retina specialists diagnose AMD with dilated exam, OCT imaging, and fluorescein angiography. For dry AMD, recommend AREDS2 vitamins (antioxidants and zinc), lifestyle modifications, and monitoring. For wet AMD, provide anti-VEGF injections (aflibercept, bevacizumab, ranibizumab) given monthly or as-needed to prevent vision loss, perform photodynamic therapy in select cases, and provide low vision aids for advanced cases.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes-related damage to blood vessels in the retina, potentially causing vision loss and blindness. Risk increases with duration of diabetes and poor blood sugar control. Leading cause of blindness in working-age adults.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Retina specialists perform dilated fundus examination and OCT imaging, diagnose severity stage (mild, moderate, severe nonproliferative, or proliferative diabetic retinopathy), detect diabetic macular edema, provide laser photocoagulation for proliferative disease, administer anti-VEGF injections for macular edema, perform vitrectomy for bleeding or retinal detachment, and emphasize importance of diabetes control.
Dry Eye Disease
Chronic condition where eyes don't produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly. Very common, especially in older adults and post-menopausal women. Can significantly impact quality of life.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Ophthalmologists evaluate tear production with Schirmer test, assess tear quality with tear breakup time, examine meibomian glands, recommend artificial tears and lubricating ointments, prescribe anti-inflammatory medications (cyclosporine, lifitegrast), perform punctal plugs to conserve tears, treat blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction, recommend warm compresses and lid hygiene, and consider intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy or LipiFlow for refractory cases.
Retinal Detachment
Separation of retina from underlying tissue, a medical emergency requiring urgent surgery to prevent permanent vision loss. Can be caused by retinal tears, trauma, or traction.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Retina specialists diagnose with dilated examination and ultrasound if view is obscured, determine type (rhegmatogenous, tractional, exudative), perform urgent surgical repair including pneumatic retinopexy for small detachments, scleral buckle surgery, or vitrectomy with gas or oil tamponade. Success rates are high (85-90%) when treated promptly. Delayed treatment can result in permanent vision loss.
Keratoconus
Progressive thinning and cone-shaped bulging of the cornea causing distorted vision. Usually begins in teens or early 20s. Can be associated with eye rubbing and allergies.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cornea specialists diagnose with corneal topography showing characteristic cone pattern, prescribe specialized contact lenses (rigid gas permeable, scleral lenses) for visual correction, perform corneal cross-linking to halt progression in early disease, fit specialty contact lenses, and perform corneal transplant (penetrating or deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty) for advanced cases where contacts no longer work.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Reduced vision in one eye due to abnormal visual development in childhood. Brain favors one eye over the other. Most common cause of vision loss in children. Treated most effectively before age 7-9.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric ophthalmologists diagnose through comprehensive eye exam in children, identify underlying cause (strabismus, refractive error, deprivation), prescribe corrective glasses, recommend patching of stronger eye to force weaker eye to develop (2-6 hours daily), use atropine drops as alternative to patching, treat underlying strabismus if present, and emphasize early detection through vision screening since treatment is most effective in early childhood.
Strabismus (Eye Misalignment)
Condition where eyes don't align properly - one or both eyes may turn in, out, up, or down. Can occur at any age. May cause double vision in adults or amblyopia in children if untreated.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric and adult strabismus specialists perform comprehensive exam including cover test and ocular motility assessment, prescribe corrective glasses that may improve alignment, recommend patching for amblyopia, provide vision therapy in select cases, inject botulinum toxin for some forms, and perform strabismus surgery to realign eye muscles (often outpatient surgery with high success rates). Early treatment prevents amblyopia in children.
Uveitis
Inflammation of the uvea (middle layer of eye including iris, ciliary body, choroid). Can be caused by autoimmune disease, infection, or trauma. Requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Uveitis specialists perform slit lamp examination and dilated fundus exam, identify type (anterior, intermediate, posterior, or panuveitis), order laboratory testing to identify underlying cause (autoimmune workup, infectious testing), prescribe topical corticosteroids for anterior uveitis, provide periocular or intravitreal steroid injections for posterior disease, recommend immunosuppressive medications for chronic or severe cases, and coordinate care with rheumatology for systemic inflammatory diseases.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Ophthalmologists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified ophthalmologist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an ophthalmologist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive eye history including vision complaints, eye disease history, previous eye surgeries, and current medications
- Visual acuity testing at distance and near to measure sharpness of vision
- Refraction to determine eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Pupil dilation with eye drops to allow thorough examination of retina and optic nerve (causes temporary blurring and light sensitivity for 3-6 hours)
- Slit lamp examination to evaluate front structures of eye (cornea, iris, lens)
- Intraocular pressure measurement (tonometry) to screen for glaucoma
- Dilated fundus examination to assess retina, macula, blood vessels, and optic nerve
- Discussion of findings, diagnoses, and recommended treatment or monitoring
- Additional testing if needed (OCT, visual fields, imaging)
- Comprehensive exams typically take 60-90 minutes including dilation time
Diagnosis & Testing
- Visual acuity and refraction testing to assess vision and refractive error
- Slit lamp biomicroscopy to examine eye structures under magnification
- Dilated fundus examination to visualize retina and optic nerve
- OCT (optical coherence tomography) imaging for detailed retina and optic nerve analysis
- Visual field testing to detect peripheral vision loss from glaucoma or neurological conditions
- Intraocular pressure measurement and pachymetry (corneal thickness) for glaucoma evaluation
- Corneal topography to map corneal shape for keratoconus or pre-surgical planning
- Fluorescein angiography to image retinal blood vessels for AMD or diabetic retinopathy
- Gonioscopy to examine drainage angle for glaucoma diagnosis
- A-scan and B-scan ultrasound for cataract surgery planning or when view is obscured
- Color vision testing and Amsler grid for macular disease screening
Treatment Options
- Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses for refractive errors
- Medical treatment with eye drops for glaucoma, infections, inflammation, or dry eyes
- Cataract surgery (phacoemulsification with IOL implantation) when vision impairment warrants
- Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections for wet AMD, diabetic macular edema, or retinal vein occlusion
- Laser treatments: YAG capsulotomy, laser trabeculoplasty for glaucoma, focal laser for diabetic retinopathy
- Refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE) for vision correction
- Strabismus surgery to realign eye muscles
- Corneal procedures: cross-linking for keratoconus, transplant for advanced disease
- Glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy, tube shunts, MIGS) when drops insufficient
- Retinal surgery for detachment, epiretinal membrane, or macular hole
- Oculoplastic procedures for eyelid disorders, tear duct problems, or orbital disease
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your ophthalmologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Ophthalmologist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an ophthalmologist.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology
- Completed 4 years of ophthalmology residency training after medical school and internship
- Fellowship training in subspecialty if seeking specialized care (retina, cornea, glaucoma, pediatric, oculoplastics)
- Active state medical license without disciplinary actions
- Hospital privileges and surgical credentials at accredited facilities
- Membership in American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Continuing medical education to stay current with surgical techniques and treatments
Important Considerations
- Subspecialty expertise matching your condition (retina specialist for AMD, glaucoma specialist for pressure issues, cornea specialist for keratoconus)
- Experience with specific procedures you may need (cataract surgery, LASIK, retinal injections)
- Surgical volume and outcomes for procedures like cataract surgery (high-volume surgeons typically have better outcomes)
- Access to advanced diagnostic equipment (OCT, visual fields, topography) in-office
- Accepts your medical insurance (for disease treatment) and/or vision insurance (for routine exams)
- Office location and availability of appointments within reasonable timeframe
- Availability of urgent/emergency eye care (important for conditions like retinal detachment)
- Communication style and willingness to explain conditions and treatment options clearly
- Technology used for surgery (bladeless cataract surgery, advanced IOL options, latest LASIK platforms)
- For refractive surgery: realistic expectations counseling, not just sales pitch
- Patient reviews and satisfaction ratings, especially for surgical procedures
- Coordination with optometrist for co-management of care
- Hospital vs. private practice setting (academic centers for complex cases, private for convenience)
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple ophthalmologists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an ophthalmologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$150-$300
Follow-up Visit
$100-$200
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Medical insurance covers eye disease treatment, exams for symptoms, and medically necessary surgeries
- Vision insurance covers routine refractive exams and discounts on glasses/contacts (separate from medical insurance)
- Specialist copays typically $20-$75 for ophthalmology visits with medical insurance
- Cataract surgery with standard IOL is covered by medical insurance when medically necessary
- Premium IOLs (multifocal, toric) cost extra ($1,500-$3,000 per eye) not covered by insurance
- LASIK and refractive surgery are elective and almost never covered by insurance
- Glaucoma treatment (drops, laser, surgery) covered by medical insurance
- Anti-VEGF injections for AMD and diabetic retinopathy covered by medical insurance (Medicare Part B, commercial plans)
- Some procedures require pre-authorization - check before surgery or expensive imaging
- FSA/HSA funds can pay for LASIK, glasses, contacts, and copays with pre-tax dollars
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers ophthalmologist visits for eye disease, cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, diabetic eye exams, and intravitreal injections at 80% after deductible (20% coinsurance). One pair of glasses or contacts covered after cataract surgery. Routine refractive eye exams not covered unless diabetic. Most ophthalmologists accept Medicare assignment.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your ophthalmologist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Ophthalmologist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an ophthalmologist.
What is causing my vision changes, and what is the diagnosis?
What are all the treatment options available for my eye condition?
When is the right time to have cataract surgery?
How often do I need to be monitored for glaucoma?
Am I a good candidate for LASIK or other refractive surgery?
What are the risks and benefits of the recommended procedure?
Will I need to use eye drops long-term, and what are the side effects?
How can I protect my vision and prevent my condition from worsening?
Should I see a subspecialist for my particular eye condition?
What lifestyle changes can help preserve my eye health?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a ophthalmologist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- Sudden flashes of light with new floaters (possible retinal detachment)
- Chemical exposure to the eye
- Eye trauma or foreign object penetration
- Severe eye pain with nausea and vomiting (acute angle-closure glaucoma)
- Sudden onset of double vision
- Eye infection with fever and severe swelling
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Ophthalmologist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Ophthalmologist vs. Optometrist
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who perform eye surgery and treat all eye diseases medically and surgically. Optometrists are doctors of optometry who provide primary vision care including eye exams, prescribing glasses and contacts, and treating some eye conditions with medications, but do not perform surgery.
Ophthalmologist vs. Optician
Ophthalmologists are physicians who diagnose eye diseases and perform surgery. Opticians are trained technicians who fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions written by ophthalmologists or optometrists, but do not examine eyes or diagnose conditions.
Ophthalmologist vs. Retina Specialist
Retina specialists are ophthalmologists who completed additional fellowship training specifically in diseases of the retina and vitreous, such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment. General ophthalmologists refer complex retinal cases to these subspecialists.
Ophthalmologist vs. Oculoplastic Surgeon
Oculoplastic surgeons are ophthalmologists who completed additional fellowship training in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, orbit (eye socket), and tear drainage system. They treat conditions like droopy eyelids, tear duct blockages, and orbital tumors.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about ophthalmologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
Read our editorial standardsFind Ophthalmologists by City
Browse ophthalmologists in top cities across the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ophthalmologists
What's the difference between an ophthalmologist, optometrist, and optician?
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who provide comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, treat all eye diseases, and perform surgery. Optometrists (OD) are doctors of optometry who perform eye exams, prescribe glasses and contacts, and can diagnose and treat some eye conditions with medications (scope varies by state), but don't perform surgery. Opticians fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions but don't examine eyes or diagnose conditions. For eye disease or surgery, you need an ophthalmologist.
How often should I have an eye exam?
Recommended frequency depends on age and risk factors. Adults 18-60 with no risk factors should have comprehensive eye exams every 2 years. Adults over 60 should have annual exams due to increased risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. People with diabetes, family history of eye disease, or existing eye conditions need annual or more frequent exams. Children should have exams at 6 months, 3 years, before first grade, and then every 1-2 years. Your eye doctor will recommend appropriate intervals based on your situation.
Is cataract surgery safe and what's the recovery like?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful surgeries performed, with over 95% success rate. It's outpatient surgery taking 15-20 minutes under local anesthesia. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and improved vision within days. You'll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for a few weeks. Avoid rubbing your eye, swimming, and heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks. Most people return to normal activities within days. Serious complications like infection or retinal detachment occur in less than 1% of cases. Vision continues improving over several weeks.
Am I a candidate for LASIK or refractive surgery?
Good LASIK candidates are: over 18 years old (preferably over 21), have stable vision prescription for at least 1 year, have healthy corneas with adequate thickness, have moderate myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism within treatable range, and have realistic expectations. You're likely NOT a candidate if you have: thin corneas, keratoconus, severe dry eye, unstable vision, certain autoimmune diseases, or are pregnant. A comprehensive evaluation by a refractive surgeon with corneal topography and pachymetry determines candidacy. Alternatives like PRK, SMILE, or ICL exist for those not suitable for LASIK.
What should I do if I experience sudden vision loss?
Sudden vision loss is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Go to the emergency room or call your ophthalmologist immediately for: sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, sudden onset of many floaters or flashing lights, curtain or shadow over your vision, sudden eye pain with vision changes, or sudden double vision. Conditions like retinal detachment, retinal artery or vein occlusion, and vitreous hemorrhage need urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. For stroke-like symptoms with vision changes, call 911. 'Time is vision' - prompt treatment can save sight.
Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
It depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) implanted. Standard monofocal IOLs correct vision at one distance (usually far), so you'll likely need reading glasses. Premium IOLs offer more options: multifocal IOLs reduce dependence on glasses for both distance and near vision (though some patients still need glasses for certain tasks), toric IOLs correct astigmatism, and extended depth of focus IOLs provide good intermediate and distance vision. Discuss goals and expectations with your surgeon. Most people are very satisfied with their vision after cataract surgery, whether or not they need glasses.
Can glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled to prevent vision loss. The goal is lowering intraocular pressure to slow or stop optic nerve damage. Treatment includes: eye drops (first line - several classes available), laser trabeculoplasty, and glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy, tube shunts, MIGS). Vision already lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered, which is why early detection through regular eye exams is critical. With treatment, most people maintain useful vision throughout life. Adherence to eye drops and regular monitoring are essential for success.
What causes floaters and when should I be concerned?
Floaters are tiny clumps in the vitreous gel inside your eye casting shadows on your retina. They're common and usually benign, especially with age as vitreous liquefies. However, seek urgent care if you experience: sudden increase in floaters, flashing lights, shadow or curtain over your vision, or sudden vision decrease - these may indicate retinal tear or detachment requiring prompt treatment. Gradual increase in floaters over years is usually normal aging. Most floaters become less bothersome over time as your brain adapts. Rarely, floaters can be treated with laser vitreolysis or vitrectomy if severely bothersome.
How can I prevent or slow macular degeneration?
While you can't completely prevent AMD, you can reduce risk and slow progression: don't smoke (biggest risk factor you can control), eat diet rich in leafy greens and fish (omega-3 fatty acids), take AREDS2 vitamins if you have intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye (specific formulation of antioxidants and zinc), maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, protect eyes from UV light with sunglasses, maintain healthy weight, and get regular exercise. Monitor vision with Amsler grid at home to detect changes early. If you have wet AMD, prompt anti-VEGF injections can preserve vision.
Do I need to see an ophthalmologist if I have diabetes?
Yes, all people with diabetes need regular comprehensive dilated eye exams by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. For type 1 diabetes, have first exam within 5 years of diagnosis, then annually. For type 2 diabetes, have exam at time of diagnosis, then annually (some low-risk patients may extend to every 2 years per doctor recommendation). Diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms until advanced, so regular screening is essential for early detection and treatment. Pregnancy with diabetes requires exams each trimester. Good blood sugar control, blood pressure control, and regular eye exams can prevent or delay diabetic eye disease.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards