FAQ
TOP 7 QUESTIONS WE HEAR FROM PATIENTS
What will happen during an eye exam?
The optometrist will check your vision and ocular health. You will be asked questions that relate to any problems you're having. Tests will help determine any need for corrective eyewear such as contact lenses or glasses. Your ocular health will be checked for findings such as dry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration or other disorders. Eye drops may be used to enlarge your pupils to enable proper viewing of the health inside your eyes. Medication may be prescribed for ocular issues or a referral may be suggested for conditions requiring further intervention, such as cataracts or glaucoma. Most people should get their eyes tested every 1-2 years. If you experience sudden loss or change in vision or if your eyes are red or painful, you should be seen by a doctor right away.
How long does the exam take?
A comprehensive eye exam will take around 30 minutes.
Can I drive after dilation?
Eye dilation will make your eyes light-sensitive in brighter conditions and may make your near vision blurry. It should not affect your distance vision or your ability to drive.
How can I prevent my vision from getting worse?
Most of the reason we need a correction such as glasses is due to genetics. The best way to prevent your eyes from worsening is by following sound health practices. Avoid UV light damage to the eye by wearing sunglasses when appropriate. Follow a nutritional diet to prevent diabetes – which can have a significantly negative effect on the eyes. Have a routine eye examination, including dilation, every year. Your eyes will naturally change over time, and the best we can do is monitor for any changes.
Will my vision get worse if I wear my glasses too much?
There is no evidence to support this idea. At young ages, it is important to wear the glasses as much as possible so the optic nerve can be properly developed. Later on, wearing glasses more often helps prevent eye strain and possible headaches.
When should my child have his/her first eye exam?
Your child should have his or her first eye exam done by a pediatrician sometime during the first year of the child's life. If you or your child's pediatrician determines that their eyes should be further examined, make an appointment with a pediatric vision specialist. After this, your child's eye exam should be before entering kindergarten, or by age 5. Your child should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every year or two. Many schools will conduct screenings to detect any severe vision problems, but your child should still see an eye doctor if there are any symptoms or if he or she fails the vision screening.
Does my insurance cover an eye exam?
Please check your specific insurance benefits. You will be financially responsible for payment of all co-pays, deductibles, and non-covered services.