Department of Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at the Faculty of Medicine, is one of the key academic departments in medical education, playing a significant role in training students to diagnose and treat eye diseases and injuries. The department began its services with the opening of the university hospital in 1978 as a division within the Department of Surgery. In 1411 AH, it became a separate department named the Department of Ophthalmology. Initially, the department relied on foreign expertise, and in 1987, it began to rely on Saudi experts trained at top universities in Canada and the UK. The department aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of eye diseases, including retinal diseases, cataracts, glaucoma, genetic disorders, and refractive errors. Training includes learning how to perform various surgeries, such as cataract surgery, refractive surgery, and cosmetic eye surgeries, along with modern diagnostic techniques such as imaging tests and advanced methods for treating visual disorders. The department focuses on developing students' clinical and practical skills through hands-on training in university hospitals, where they handle real cases that require specialized ophthalmology skills. It also emphasizes training students to provide healthcare for patients with eye diseases, contributing to improving their quality of life. The Department of Ophthalmology seeks to enhance scientific research in the field by supporting innovative studies that improve treatment techniques and healthcare. The department also fosters academic collaboration with local and international institutions to exchange knowledge and expertise. Through continuous training programs and skill development, the Department of Ophthalmology aims to prepare specialized doctors and surgeons capable of providing exceptional healthcare in this field, contributing to the improvement of the national healthcare system.