Your Examination

Thank you for scheduling an eye examination at our office. We hope that your visit to our office is pleasant and that we answer all of your questions.
The best way to ensure a lifetime of good vision is through regular, comprehensive eye examinations. An examination by our doctors is much more than a test to determine if you need eye glasses or contact lenses. A comprehensive eye examination also includes:
·    A test to measure your eye pressure
·    A retinal exam to view the back of your eye
·    A microscopic examination of the front of your eye
In addition to ensuring proper eyesight, regular eye examinations allow your eye doctor to detect and treat diseases at the earliest possible opportunity. Several eye diseases, such as glaucoma, show no symptoms in their early stages. Regular comprehensive examinations can help detect diseases early, improving the likelihood for successful treatment.

Preparing for your visit:
A comprehensive eye examination takes approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the various tests the doctors deem necessary. During the exam, you will be given eye drops to dilate your pupils to allow the doctor to do a thorough examination of your eye health. The dilating drops will affect your near vision and make you sensitive to light. In some cases it can affect your distance vision if you are far-sighted. We do provide you with temporary sunglasses if needed. Most patients feel comfortable driving after having their eyes dilated. If you are unsure or uneasy driving while your eyes are dilated, please be safe and bring another driver with you to your examination.
 
The visit:
To start your exam you will be asked for information about your vision and health history, medications, symptoms of vision problems and other background information.
Using a number of tests and medical instruments, your eye doctor will conduct an external and internal exam of the various parts of your vision system including the eyelashes, eyelids, conjunctiva, iris, lens, cornea, pupils, extra-ocular muscles, optic nerve and the retina. The eye doctor will assess the health of your eyes and look for vision problems such as glaucoma, cataracts and corneal diseases. The doctor will also look for ocular changes associated with systemic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and neurological disorders. This evaluation may also include a refraction, which determines whether you need prescription lenses or not.
At the conclusion of your exam, your eye doctor will make a final diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan designed specifically for you. The eye doctor will prescribe any necessary treatments such as corrective eye wear, medications or surgery. You also may receive written instructions or handouts for your reference.

After the visit:
Once you return home, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.
How often should I have an eye examination?
Maintaining regular checkups is important.
·    Children under 18: Annually
·    Age 18-45: Every two years
·    Age 45 and over: Annually
      Contact lens wearers once every year regardless of age.

In addition, if you are a diabetic, it is critical that you have a comprehensive eye examination every year. An eye condition known as diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common complications associated with diabetes and is the leading cause of blindness among working-age Americans. Some patients with certain ocular or systemic conditions may require more frequent examinations.