Description
Diagnose and surgically treat eye diseases and injuries using microsurgical and laser techniques. Evaluate patients, plan and perform operations, and deliver comprehensive pre- and postoperative care; may also prescribe medications and corrective lenses to optimize vision.
- • Plan and perform cataract, glaucoma, corneal, vitreoretinal, refractive, and oculoplastic surgeries.
- • Perform laser procedures for glaucoma, posterior capsulotomy, and retinal pathology.
- • Conduct comprehensive preoperative evaluations and obtain informed consent.
- • Provide and direct immediate and long-term postoperative care.
- • Order, perform, and interpret ophthalmic diagnostics, imaging, and biometry.
- • Diagnose and manage acute ocular trauma and surgical complications.
- • Prescribe and administer perioperative and therapeutic ophthalmic medications.
- • Develop individualized surgical treatment plans based on patient goals and risks.
- • Educate patients on surgical options, risks, benefits, and postoperative care.
- • Collaborate with anesthesia, nursing, and multidisciplinary teams in the OR and clinic.
- • Document medical histories, examination findings, procedures, and outcomes.
- • Provide ophthalmic consultation to primary care and specialty clinicians.
- • Refer patients to subspecialists when conditions exceed scope or resources.
- • Instruct and supervise residents, fellows, and staff in surgical techniques.
- • Develop and implement protocols for ophthalmic surgical services and safety.
- • Conduct or participate in clinical research and quality improvement in ophthalmic surgery.
- • Prescribe corrective lenses or low-vision aids when indicated.
- • Utilize adjunctive therapies such as cryotherapy or intravitreal injections.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
