General ophthalmologists are doctors who specialize in the medical evaluation and management of all aspects of eye health. They diagnose and treat various ocular issues, including vision, injuries, infections, and diseases. Like all doctors, ophthalmologists must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and four years of medical school. After medical school, ophthalmologists must also complete four years of additional training in the field of vision care, including an internship and residence.
Retina specialists follow this same path but must also complete a retina-vitreous fellowship, which typically lasts about one to two years. During this time, retina specialists receive comprehensive training in the use of advanced diagnostic techniques and vitreoretinal surgery. This period of extensive education and training prepares retina specialists to treat conditions and injuries related to the retina, macula, and vitreous. Some of the most common eye issues that retina specialists deal with include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears or detachments, and vascular occlusive diseases.