What is pediatric ophthalmology? A specialist in pediatric
ophthalmology, also referred to as a pediatric ophthalmologist,
is a licensed doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating
ocular disease and other eye conditions in children and teens.
The discipline also focuses on regions surrounding the eye,
including the tear ducts and eyelids. Pediatric ophthalmologists
can be either a doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of
osteopathic medicine (D.O.). Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat
ocular disease in the same way an optometrist does. However,
ophthalmologists are also trained to practice eye surgery, such
as cataract surgery or LASIK surgery (Laser-Assisted In Situ
Keratomileusis). When should I take my child to see a pediatric
ophthalmologist, and what conditions does a pediatric
ophthalmologist treat? Any child or teen experiencing vision
problems (blurred or poor vision) or symptoms such as pain and
swelling; red, watery eyes; or discharge from the eyes should
see a specialist in pediatric ophthalmo