The specific procedures performed during an eye examination may vary depending on of the patient, but generally, an eye examination includes the following steps:
- Medical and ocular history: The doctor will ask the patient about their overall health and any past or current eye problems or vision issues.
- Visual acuity test: The patient will be asked to read letters or symbols on an eye chart to determine how well they can see at various distances.
- Refraction assessment: The doctor will use various lenses and instruments to determine the patient’s prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
- Binocular vision test: The doctor will evaluate how well the patient’s eyes work together, including their ability to focus, track objects, and maintain proper alignment.
- Ocular health evaluation: The doctor will examine the inside and outside of the eyes using a variety of instruments, including a slit lamp and an ophthalmoscope, to check for any signs of eye disease or abnormalities.
- Pupil dilation: If necessary, the doctor may put drops in the patient’s eyes to dilate the pupils, which allows for a more thorough examination of the retina and optic nerve.
- Additional testing: Depending on the patient’s specific needs, the doctor may perform additional tests, such as color vision testing, visual field testing, or imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasound.
Overall, an eye examination typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete, and it is a non-invasive and painless procedure. The doctor will discuss the results of the examination with the patient and recommend any necessary treatment or follow-up care.
