What is the difference between Ophthalmologist and Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist is a total Eye care doctor. He can examine your eyes, give glasses, contact lenses, prescribe medicines, do eye surgery, use laser and provide all aspects of Eye Care.. He is a medical graduate, and has specialized in Ophthalmology, either a Post Graduate Ophthalmology Diploma or a Post-Graduate degree in Ophthalmology -A Masters in Ophthalmology Medicine and surgery. He has completed at least 8 year training in Medical School. An Optometrist has done a Diploma in Optometry. He can prescribe Spectacles and Contact Lenses. In many places, they are licensed to give some basic First Aid. They cannot do Eye Surgery and have to refer any Eye problems to the Ophthalmologist. An Optician is Licensed to dispense spectacle and Contact Lenses. He cannot give Eye Medications.  more