A medical career in ophthalmology: For those seeking to become a successful doctor, ophthalmology may be the key. Discover the benefits of choosing this specialty, especially in a country with 6.5 million people with some type of visual impairment.
Vision . – and problems with its functioning – has a huge impact on anyone's daily life. A child with impaired vision, for example, may have difficulties at school, while a driver may cause accidents
In Brazil, there are 582,000 blind people and about 6 million with low vision, according to IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics). The medical specialty dedicated to caring for these conditions is ophthalmology – which comes from the Greek ophthalmos (eye) + logos (study).
What is the daily routine of an ophthalmologist like?
Responsible for diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the eyes and vision, the ophthalmologist is a professional who not only improves the quality of life of their patients, but also transforms their futures.
Many people go years without realizing they have vision problems, such as myopia, and, upon consulting an ophthalmologist, discover that the world isn't as blurry as it seemed.
However, with the use of glasses or other treatments, everything can change, even the simplest things: in studies, in daily work, and even in leisure time.
In the doctor's office, the routine of this clinical specialty involves various prescriptions, such as eyeglasses, eye drops, diagnoses , and treatments of diseases such as:
- Cataract
- Dry eye
- Glaucoma
- Conjunctivitis
- Diabetic retinopathy
Patients vary widely in age, gender, and background, so those who choose to work in this field have the option of a very dynamic with a challenge each day.
And what about the job market and compensation for a medical career in ophthalmology?
Ophthalmology . is a clinical-surgical specialty with approximately 17,967 doctors Ophthalmologists can work in private clinics, public hospitals, through public service exams , or choose to have their own private practice.
The average salary for an ophthalmologist is R$ 6,163.90 for an 18-hour. The salary range varies between R$ 5,995.55 and R$ 13,003.37, according to a survey by Salario.com.br, conducted between March 2022 and March 2023.
However, when a doctor decides to open their own practice in their ophthalmology career and seeks to excel in the field through continuing education and new specializations, this profit can be further enhanced.
The more recognized and specialized an ophthalmologist becomes, the greater the demand for and preference for them, especially since they work in an area that requires so much trust, such as vision.
What are the career paths available in ophthalmology?
As one of the specialties broadest all ages, from premature babies to young adults and the elderly.
There are also subspecialties, such as oculoplastic surgery, pediatric ophthalmology , and refractive surgery, allowing for even more specialized practice in the field.
How do I know if ophthalmology is right for me?
With a growing market and an ever-increasing demand for qualified specialists, a medical career in ophthalmology is a field that offers great rewards.
But, in addition to technical skills, it is important that a future ophthalmologist has:
- Good observational skills;
- Organization;
- Passion for challenges;
- And ease of communication;
So, if you fit these characteristics, don't waste any time. Learn more about postgraduate studies in ophthalmology and start building your future.
Click here to view the course schedule.
