GENERAL EXAMINATION OF THE EYE

What is an Eye Health Examination?

An Eye Examination includes an assessment whether glasses are needed (refraction), and a general eye health exam.

During the Eye Health Examination the following areas of your eyes are reviewed and tested:

Front of the eye, eyelids, cornea
Lens (cataract)
Back of the eye (retina, optic disc)
Other parts of the eye

These will help to ascertain the general health of your eyes and vision as well as act as an early warning for many eye conditions.

Why is an Eye Health Examination Recommended?

As we age it is recommended that everyone have an Eye Health Examination regularly. Below are the intervals suggested for maintaining good eye health:

Aged under 40 years should have an eye test every 5 - 10 years
Between 40 - 54 years - should have an eye test every 2 - 5 years
Between 55 - 64 years - should have an eye test every 1 - 3 years
Over 65 years - should have an eye test every 1 - 2 years

What Does an Eye Examination Include?

During an Eye Health Examination your Ophthalmologist will

Test Refraction (to determine whether glasses are needed)
Examine your visual field
Perform a visual acuity test
Measure the eye pressure
Study your eye through a microscope (slit lamp)

What Happens During Your Eye Health Examination

After your Ophthalmologist takes a full medical history, your eye health exam starts with your Ophthalmologist putting drops in your eyes to dilate your pupils.

Dilated pupils give your doctor a better view inside your eyes.

Typically the test will include:

Refractive Assessment

Your eyes are tested for any refractive error. This assessment determines if you have any signs of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia.

Slit Lamp Exam

The Slit Lamp utilises a microscope which allows for the magnification and illumination of the eye structures.

Visual Field Test

Testing the visual field is also called perimetry and it is done to determine if there are any areas of peripheral vision that are impaired.

After Your Eye Examination

The eye drops used may make your eyes light sensitive for a few hours after the exam. We recommend you bring sunglasses and arrange a friend or family member be prepared to drive you home.