Comprehensive Eye Exam

Periodic eye and vision examinations are an important part of preventive health care. Many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms, so you might not know a problem exists. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye and vision problems can help prevent vision loss.

What happens during my eye exam?

A comprehensive eye exam is NOT invasive, and you will be perfectly comfortable throughout the consultation. Your medical and vision history will be reviewed with you, and tests will be performed to determine some or all of the following:

  • How well your eyes work together
  • How your pupils react to light
  • The size of the smallest print you can read on an eye chart
  • The condition of the exterior of your eyes and eyelids
  • How light reflects from your eyes
  • Your exact lens prescription
  • The condition of your cornea, iris, and the front inside of the eye
  • The condition of structures at the back of your eyes, such as the retina and its blood vessels, the optic nerve, and the vitreous (the jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eye)
  • The pressure inside your eye
  • The thickness of your corneas
  • The scope of the area you can see without moving your eyes

How long will my eye exam take?

You should allow at least 30 to 60 minutes for your appointment.

What if I need my eyes dilated?

To perform some of the tests, the doctor may need to examine the eyes’ internal structures. You may be given eye drops that dilate (enlarge) the pupils of your eyes so the doctor can see inside.

If your eyes are dilated, they will still be more sensitive to light than usual when you leave the office after your eye exam. It’s a good idea to bring sunglasses (and perhaps another driver) with you.