Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology is the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the eyes. Ophthalmology is complex, requiring a detailed knowledge of the anatomy. Often specialised equipment is required to be able to assess and treat the back of the eye, such as an operating microscope. 

Although all vets can perform ophthalmology, more complex conditions are preferably managed by vets with a higher level of training. This may be a vet with a particular interest in ophthalmology, a vet who has undertaken a certificate in ophthalmology (often gaining Advanced Practitioner status), or a recognised specialist. 

Conditions and procedures commonly seen by advanced ophthalmologists include: 

• Eyelid surgery (e.g. entropion, ectropion, lid shortening, canthoplasty, mass removal) 
• Third eyelid surgery (e.g. cherry eye, scrolled cartilage correction) 
• Management of complex corneal ulcers (including pedicle conjunctival grafts, keratotomy) 
• Corneal surgery (e.g. keratectomy for sequestrum, biopsies, foreign body removal) 
• Cryotherapy for distichiasis 
• Glaucoma diagnosis and monitoring 
• Management of dry eye (KCS) 
• Phacoemulsification (cataract surgery)