Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Paraoptometric Practice Questions and Study Guide

A doctor of medicine specializing in surgery, particularly related to eye care, is known as an ophthalmologist. This medical professional has completed a medical degree, followed by a residency in ophthalmology, enabling them to diagnose and treat eye diseases and perform surgical procedures. Ophthalmologists are trained to perform a wide range of surgical interventions, from cataract surgery to complex surgeries for retinal diseases.

The other roles listed serve different purposes within the eye care field. An optometrist is a healthcare professional who can perform eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, and manage certain eye conditions, but they do not perform surgery. An ophthalmic technician assists ophthalmologists in various clinical tasks but does not have the same level of medical training. An optician specializes in fitting and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses, focusing on eyewear rather than medical or surgical aspects of eye care.