About Dr. Christopher Khng

An ophthalmologist or ophthalmic surgeon is a medical or osteopathic doctor who is trained to perform eye tests, diagnose and treat disease, and perform eye surgery. Ophthalmologists are also able to write prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses. 

On the other hand, a general eye doctor – also known as an optometrist – provides primary vision care services such as performing eye tests, prescribing corrective lenses, detecting certain eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for certain eye diseases. Unlike an ophthalmic surgeon, an optometrist is not a medical doctor and is not licensed to perform eye surgery.

For primary eye care including eye testing, eye medication prescriptions, detecting eye diseases, or emergency eye care services, you can visit an optometrist. However, for any complex eye issues such as eye trauma, sports eye injury, or for glaucoma surgery and cataract surgery, complex lens disorder and iris repair, you should visit an ophthalmologist in Singapore to seek specialised care.

You should see an ophthalmologist if you notice any of the following signs:

• Loss of vision or decreased vision in one or both eyes
• Seeing distortions or wavy lines
• Having watery vision, or seeing blurry images
• Experiencing changes in your colour vision
• Any other discomfort related to eyes

An Ophthalmologist can diagnose eye injuries, infections, diseases, and other disorders related to eyes and vision.

Yes, ophthalmologists are trained to perform eye surgery.

Your first appointment with an ophthalmologist in Singapore may include a series of tests done to evaluate your vision and test your eyes for any diseases. You may also be asked about your medical history. After a thorough evaluation, you will be prescribed certain treatments, medications, or eye surgery (if necessary) by the ophthalmologist.