What is the difference between a retina surgeon and a general ophthalmologist?
A general ophthalmologist is a specialist who performs general eye care including refraction and minor surgery as well as cataract surgery. A retina specialist or surgeon is highly trained in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of retinal problems such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, macular puckers and retinal detachments. A retina specialist trains for many years beyond medical school: not only for four more years to become a general ophthalmologist, but for two additional years in a “fellowship” program to learn the intricacies of retinal surgery.
