Optometrists and ophthalmologists both specialize in eye and vision health. However, they don’t support your vision in the exact same way. To protect your vision, you should understand the difference between optometrists and ophthalmologists. Knowing who to see helps ensure you get the most appropriate care.
A Knoxville eye doctor may be an optometrist who provides routine exams and vision correction. They may also be an ophthalmologist who handles advanced care and surgery. Both help protect your eye health and catch issues early. Hardin Valley Eyecare provides comprehensive, patient-focused care. We use advanced technology, thorough exams, and personalized care to support clear, healthy vision.
Find Your Knoxville Eye Doctor
A Knoxville eye doctor can be either an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, depending on your needs. Optometrists handle routine exams, vision correction, and early detection of eye and health issues. Ophthalmologists provide advanced medical care and perform eye surgeries. Together, they ensure comprehensive vision care and support your overall eye health.
When to choose an optometrist in Knoxville
This type of Knoxville eye doctor is your first line of defense when it comes to your vision. Along with a four-year bachelor’s degree, they go on to complete an additional four years of training in optometry.
Some may complete more training in a specialized field, including:
- Pediatric optometry
- Geriatric optometry
- Eye diseases
- Rehabilitation for brain injuries
- Rehabilitation for vision problems
Think of your Knoxville optometrist as a key part of your primary care team. They are experts in staying on top of your eye health as well as understanding how it affects your overall health.
Your optometrist should be your first call if you:
- Need corrective glasses or contact lenses
- Have experienced a minor eye injury
- Need a comprehensive eye exam
- Are experiencing eye problems
Regular visits to your optometrist allow them to monitor your vision and detect any major changes that occur. Using comprehensive eye exams, they examine the inner structures of your eyes. This helps detect vision problems early, often before you notice any symptoms.
They can also catch signs of other health issues such as hypertension and diabetes.
When to choose an ophthalmologist in Knoxville
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who have completed four years of medical school as well as a four-year residency. This type of Knoxville eye doctor can perform many of the same services as an optometrist. However, they specialize in eye surgery and treating complex medical conditions.
Ophthalmologists specialize in:
- Cataract surgery
- LASIK surgery
- Glaucoma surgery
They also provide injections for patients whose vision is affected by diabetes or wet macular degeneration. Your ophthalmologist works closely with your optometrist and other healthcare providers. This teamwork helps them better understand your vision and overall health. It also ensures that you receive the best and most complete treatment possible for your condition.
Find Your New Optometrist in Knoxville, TN
Hardin Valley Eyecare & Optical serves the vision care needs of Hardin Valley, Oak Ridge, and the greater Knoxville area. Established in 2009, Hardin Valley Eyecare is led by Dr. Travis Thompson and Dr. Catherine Abbott. We’re a trusted provider of premium vision products in Knoxville. We use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose as well as educate our patients about their vision.
This ensures you get the best treatment possible for your eyes:
- Diseases
- Conditions
- Problems
Look no further than Hardin Valley Eyecare & Optical if you’re searching for a Knoxville eye doctor. Dr. Travis Thompson and Dr. Catherine Abbott are passionate about eye health. They are committed to providing the best possible experience for every patient who visits the office.
Travis Thompson, O.D.
Born and raised in Knoxville, TN, Dr. Travis Thompson grew up in the Hardin Valley area. He graduated from Karns High School in 2004. He then earned a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from the University of Tennessee in 2008. Dr. Thompson earned his O.D. in 2013 from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN.
As a Knoxville eye doctor, Dr. Thompson loves providing the highest quality vision care to all of his patients. However, he has a special interest in:
- Managing ocular diseases
- Fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Pediatric optometry
Dr. Thompson is also a member of a number of professional organizations. This includes the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians (TOAP), the East Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians (ETSOP), and the American Optometric Association (AOA).
Catherine Abbott, O.D.
Hailing from Salem, VA, Dr. Catherine Abbott attended the University of Virginia, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. Following undergrad, she completed her O.D. in 2013 at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN. Dr. Abbott has also completed a one-year residency with the Salem VA Medical Center to round out her education and experience.
Dr. Abbott is an experienced Knoxville eye doctor who treats complex cases, including eye diseases. She is an active member of professional organizations such as TOAP, ETSOP, and AOA. She also co-owns and operates Hardin Valley Eyecare & Optical with her husband, Dr. Travis Thompson.
A Knoxville eye doctor may be an optometrist who provides routine exams and vision correction. They may also be an ophthalmologist who offers advanced treatment and performs surgery. Hardin Valley Eyecare provides comprehensive eye exams and personalized care. Their goal is to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
Hardin Valley Eyecare & Optical has been serving Knoxville since 2009. Located at 10904 Spring Bluff Way, you can schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (865) 888-0892.
