A medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision treatment is known as an ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.). Ophthalmologists are distinguished from optometrists and opticians by their levels of schooling as well as the conditions they can diagnose and treat. Most optometrists go through several years of college training after high school to receive their degree, while ophthalmologists usually attend medical school after going through undergraduate studies. Optometrists can prescribe certain medications but cannot perform major surgery. Ophthalmology is the study of eyes and associated tissues such as the optic nerve and visual pathways. An ophthalmologist has special training in diagnosing and treating diseases, disorders and injuries of the eye. He or she may provide preventive care for individuals at risk for eye problems or injury. The ophthalmologist may also be able to refer patients to other specialists when appropriate. An ophthalmologist should be called whenever someone suffers from symptoms such as blindness, glare, double vision, redness, pain, or decreased vision. A thorough eye examination should be conducted for every patient, regardless of age or gender. This exam will include testing your vision, determining any abnormalities with your eyes, and prescribing any necessary treatments. There are two types of ophthalmologists: (1) those who practice exclusively out of one location and (2) those who practice across multiple locations.