As specialists in eye health and the visual system, ophthalmologists play a crucial role in health care. However, as with many medical professions, ophthalmologists' salaries vary according to a number of factors. This article explains them in detail.
Factors influencing ophthalmologists' salaries
Several factors determine an ophthalmologist's salary:
- Experience: a junior ophthalmologist generally earns less than a professional with several years' practice.
- Location : salaries can vary depending on the region where the practitioner works. These differences are linked to population density, cost of living and demand for medical care.
- Status: whether an ophthalmologist is salaried or self-employed, his or her income is affected by the fact that they are free to set their own rates, in exchange for the tax and administrative responsibility of the location they occupy.
- Specialty: ophthalmologists with rare or in-demand specialties, such as refractive or retinal surgery, will earn more.
Average salaries for ophthalmologists
As you can see, it's very difficult to say how much an ophthalmologist earns. The above-mentioned criteria frequently lead to variations in remuneration. Because of these limitations, we can only give you a rough idea:
- Confirmed ophthalmologist
- Salaried : €900 to €1,200 net/day.
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- Private practice: approximately 40% retrocession.
In addition, ophthalmologists who specialize in fields such as cataract surgery, refractive surgery, retinal surgery or pediatric eye diseases will bill more expensive services, logically increasing their income. Technical skills and certifications play a significant role in determining remuneration when applying for an ophthalmologist job.
Additional benefits and allowances
In addition to their basic salary, ophthalmologists can enjoy a range of benefits, depending on their status:
- Self-employed ophthalmologists: these ophthalmologists can set their own fees, resulting in higher incomes than salaried employees. On the other hand, they must assume the costs associated with running their practice, such as staff salaries, equipment purchases and insurance.
- Salaried ophthalmologists : salaried ophthalmologists enjoy job security, a fixed salary and benefits offered by their employer. They generally work in public or private hospitals, clinics or health centers. Although their incomes may be lower than those of liberals, they don't have to worry about the administrative and financial management of their practice.
To find out more, click on our ophthalmologist job description.
International comparison of salaries
Salaries for ophthalmologists vary considerably around the world. In the USA, for example, the average annual salary of an ophthalmologist is around $300,000 per year, while in Germany, this specialist can earn between €80,000 and €150,000 per year. These differences are mainly due to tax conditions in each country, as well as differences in healthcare systems.
In short, ophthalmologists' salaries depend on many social and environmental factors. Beginning ophthalmologists will therefore have their work cut out to maximize their income in this exciting discipline.
Did you enjoy this article and would you like to find out more about this career? Find out more on our ophthalmologist studies page!
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Ophthalmologist (M/F) - Marseille 1st
Employee
12000 - 1200 per month
Marseille 1er
As part of its business expansion, a multidisciplinary medical facility in Marseille’s 1st arrondissement, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, is seeking an ophthalmologist (M/F) for a permanent position. The terms - Permanent contract - 3 days per week - Flexible schedule The Practice You will work within a healthcare group operating at two locations in Marseille’s 1st arrondissement, comprising approximately 70 practitioners across both facilities. The practice is fully multidisciplinary, with departments dedicated to radiology, dermatology, gynecology, and psychiatry, as well as a fully operational ophthalmology unit. The central location makes it easily accessible by public transportation, and the surrounding area offers numerous amenities to support your practice. Compensation - Fixed base salary of €12,000 net - Variable component of 40% of gross revenue (including CP) if it exceeds €12,000 Responsibilities - Conduct ophthalmology consultations at the practice - See 60 to 70 patients per day while prioritizing the quality of care - Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support the patient care pathway - Organize and manage your schedule in coordination with medical management - Develop a surgical practice in collaboration with partner facilities, if desired - Share appointment slots with another practitioner to expand the range of consultation services Benefits - Fully equipped ophthalmology facility - High patient volume with the potential to increase the number of consultations - Flexible schedule and the option to share practice responsibilities - Existing partnerships for access to surgical facilities - Multidisciplinary team and extensive network of practitioners - Central location in Marseille, close to public transportation and amenities That little extra The downtown location allows you to quickly enjoy the Old Port, museums like the Mucem, and access to the Calanques for nature outings—all within a few dozen minutes. Qualifications An ophthalmologist licensed in France or the European Union, currently registered with or eligible for registration in the French Medical Council. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected]. Job posting reference: 12720 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in onboarding healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our Jober Group website and mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Ophthalmologist (M/F) - Toulouse 31
Employee
180000 - 350000 per year
Toulouse
We are recruiting an ophthalmologist (M/F) to join an ophthalmology practice located in Toulouse, Haute-Garonne, for a temporary replacement position. The Practice You will join an ophthalmology network consisting of facilities of approximately 200 m². Each site has one to two physicians, an associate surgeon, two medical secretaries, and three to four orthoptists. The facility is fully equipped, and the organization is designed to ensure coordinated and seamless care between physicians and paramedical teams, with surgical services available at the main locations. Compensation - Guaranteed fixed salary at the legal minimum - Compensation of 35% gross of revenue (increasing to up to 40% depending on activity) Responsibilities - Conduct general and specialized consultations - Collaborate with the team to conduct evaluations and manage patient care - Provide postoperative follow-up and refer patients to dedicated facilities for surgical procedures - Participate in organizing and optimizing the medical schedule - Help coordinate with the administrative and paramedical teams Benefits - Flexible schedule based on the practitioner’s availability - Fully equipped medical facilities - Ability to perform surgery at the main locations - Limited patient volume (estimated at 70 to 80 patients per day) - Full control over procedure billing That little extra something Toulouse offers a rich cultural and scientific heritage, with the Place du Capitole in the heart of the city, the Cité de l’Espace for space enthusiasts, and the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for walks and outdoor activities. Qualifications An ophthalmologist licensed in France or the European Union, currently registered with or eligible for registration in the French Medical Board. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected]. Job Posting ID: 12733 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, provides you with free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our Jober Group website and mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Ophthalmologist M/F - Villeurbanne 69
Employee
1100 - 1300 per day
Villeurbanne
A medical facility located in Villeurbanne, in the Rhône department, is actively seeking an ophthalmologist (M/F) for a full-time or part-time permanent position. About the Facility This intimate facility, easily accessible by public transportation, offers a warm and family-like work environment. You will have a 15m² consultation room with a private restroom and will be supported by an on-site secretary. The technical equipment is brand new, including an OCT, a tonometer, slit lamps, and Topcon equipment tailored to the specialty. A project to open an ophthalmic surgery center is currently in development in Villeurbanne. The team values friendly interactions, such as weekly lunches among colleagues. Description and Responsibilities You will join a practice designed for a single ophthalmologist, supported by a dedicated team. Your responsibilities will include: - Conducting general ophthalmology consultations - Working in tandem with two orthoptists - Using state-of-the-art equipment for vision exams - Managing a moderate and controlled patient flow, with a maximum of 55 to 60 patients per day - Hours: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2 p.m.–6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m.–12 p.m. on Friday Compensation For this position, you will receive a daily salary of €1,100 net for 60 patients or €1,300 for 80 patients, with housing provided. Benefits - Permanent employee status - Full-time or part-time depending on availability - Daily pay of €1,300 net - New, state-of-the-art ophthalmic equipment (Topcon, OCT, tonometer, etc.) - Medical secretary and two orthoptists providing ongoing support - Friendly, family-like atmosphere within the team - Center well-served by public transportation - Limited patient volume with full control over procedure billing Qualifications Ophthalmologist (M/F) holding a European medical degree with a specialty in ophthalmology, registered with the National Council of the Order of Physicians. Recent graduates are welcome. Contact us at07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected] Job Posting ID: 10301 Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our website and the Jober Group mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts dedicated to your needs, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with. Candidates from the European Union: JoberGroup , the leader in placing healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you start your new role: - Language training (Level B2) - Connections with our partner teachers - Assistance with registration with the medical board - A dedicated consultant to support you
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