At Iowa Eye Center, all of our doctors are ophthalmologists. What is an ophthalmologist, and how do they differ from other eye care professionals?
Ophthalmologists are highly trained medical doctors.
Their training is extensive, beginning with a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medical school, and then a residency in ophthalmology that typically lasts another four years. This residency includes both clinical and surgical training, providing them with the expertise to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of eye diseases and conditions.
Ophthalmologists perform eye surgeries.
They are qualified to conduct a variety of surgical procedures, from relatively common operations like cataract removal and LASIK to more complex surgeries such as retinal detachment repair or corneal transplants. Their surgical expertise is crucial in treating conditions that cannot be managed with medication or non-surgical interventions alone.
Ophthalmologists are trained to recognize and treat eye conditions that are linked to systemic diseases.
Conditions like diabetes-related retinopathy or hypertension-induced eye can have significant implications for overall health. Ophthalmologists often collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.
Ophthalmologists often collaborate with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care.
When patients require specialized care and advanced medical and surgical treatments, optometrists refer them to ophthalmologists, ensuring a seamless transition and the best possible outcomes through a team-based approach.
An ability to provide both medical and surgical care make ophthalmologists an indispensable part of the healthcare system for those with complex or serious eye conditions.
Elizabeth Gauger, MD
Jordan Gross, MD
Michael Hall, MD
Jillian Litchfield, DO
Jeffrey Maassen, MD
David Muller, MD
Brian Privett, MD
David Puk, MD