ABSTRACT
The practice of ophthalmology has altered dramatically in the past 20 years. It is less than two generations since ophthalmology separated from ENT medicine and surgery, to be practised as a special-interest subject in its own right. Since that time the specialty has progressed beyond recognition, in the main due to technological advances and the continuous integration of accumulated experience. Within the general practice of ophthalmology, areas of subspecialisation have become well defined and are still developing. The advantages of sub-specialisation are the higher standards of care that accrue from concentration of experience, for the field of ophthalmic medical and surgical practice has become too comprehensive for a generalist to practice with complete accomplishment at all levels.
