Optometrists (also known as Doctors of Optometry in the US and Canada for those holding the O.D. degree[1] or Ophthalmic Opticians in the UK[2][3][4][5][6][7]) are medical professionals who provide primary eyecare through comprehensive eye examinations to detect and treat various visual abnormalities and eye diseases.
The first step toward becoming a surgeon is to earn a bachelor's degree. Although there is no specific mandated major, it's highly suggested you consider a major in the sciences, such as biology or chemistry. You must pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to apply to medical school.
The cardiothoracic surgery fellowship typically spans two or three years, but certification is based on the number of surgeries performed as the operating surgeon, not the time spent in the program, in addition to passing rigorous board certification tests.