Eye Doctor in Montréal
When you search for an "eye doctor", you may picture a single professional. In practice, three types of professionals look after your eyes, and the right starting point is almost always the same: the optometrist.
Who is the "eye doctor"?
The optometrist is the first-line professional for vision and eye health. An optometrist holds a doctorate in optometry and is a member of the Ordre des optométristes du Québec. They perform eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, screen for glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration, and refer you to an ophthalmologist when that is needed. You do not need a referral to see an optometrist.
The ophthalmologist is a medical specialist and eye surgeon. You usually see one on referral, for example for cataract surgery.
The optician fits and supplies glasses and contact lenses according to a prescription. An optician does not perform eye exams.
Who should you see for what?
- Blurry vision, headaches, tired eyes at the screen, a new prescription: optometrist.
- Dry, red or irritated eyes: optometrist.
- Monitoring of glaucoma or another eye condition: optometrist, with an ophthalmologist when needed.
- Eye surgery: ophthalmologist, on referral.
- Sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a curtain over your vision, or a painful red eye: this is an emergency. Call us at 514-827-7463 or go to the emergency room without waiting.
Book an appointment
Eye exams for adults and children, contact lenses and myopia control, in English and in French, at 9520 Bd de l'Acadie, Suite 222, near Marché Central. Book online with instant confirmation, or call 514-827-7463.
Learn more: eye exam in Montréal, optometrist in Montréal, who pays for your eye exam.
Common questions
Is an eye doctor an optometrist or an ophthalmologist?
Both exist. For an eye exam, a prescription or ongoing follow-up, start with an optometrist.
Do I need a referral to see an optometrist?
No. You can book an appointment directly.
Does RAMQ cover the exam?
RAMQ covers one complete eye exam a year for people under 18 and for people 65 and over. See the coverage page for the details.