Blog Post

What To Expect During Your Yearly Eye Exam

Focal Pointe Eye Care

At Focal Pointe Eye Care, we strive to provide the most comprehensive and in-depth eye exam to every patient we see. During your exam, you may be presented with tests and assessments that might seem unfamiliar to you. Every step is an important part of the process, so please allow 1-1.5 hours for your visit. This will serve as your guide to walk you through the steps that help you look and see your best!

Before you leave your home, make sure you have the following information with you:


  • Photo ID
  • Medical Insurance card: Even if you have a separate vision plan for exams and materials, medical insurance is kept on file in case of emergencies.
  • Glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses you currently wear: Understanding how you are seeing with your current corrective lenses helps our doctors make the appropriate changes that may be needed.
    -Contact lens wearers, please arrive with glasses on    and contact lenses in a case.
A woman is sitting at the front desk at Focal Pointe Eye Care in front of a wall that says eye am unique
A woman is sitting at the front desk at Focal Pointe Eye Care in front of a wall that says eye am unique

Before you leave your home, make sure you have the following information with you:


  • Photo ID
  • Medical Insurance card: Even if you have a separate vision plan for exams and materials, medical insurance is kept on file in case of emergencies.
  • Glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses you currently wear: Understanding how you are seeing with your current corrective lenses helps our doctors make the appropriate changes that may be needed.
    -Contact lens wearers, please arrive with glasses on    and contact lenses in a case.
  • List of medications or vitamins you are taking, including OTC eye drops: Many medications and supplements impact the health of your eyes.
  • List and details of previous eye surgeries: This will help our doctors better manage any ongoing conditions you may have.

 

After being greeted by a doctor assistant, they will walk you back to a “Pretest” room. Here they will go over a series of questions and measurements to help the doctor better understand your vision, history, and other concerns you may have.

  • List of medications or vitamins you are taking, including OTC eye drops: Many medications and supplements impact the health of your eyes.
  • List and details of previous eye surgeries: This will help our doctors better manage any ongoing conditions you may have.

 

After being greeted by a doctor assistant, they will walk you back to a “Pretest” room. Here they will go over a series of questions and measurements to help the doctor better understand your vision, history, and other concerns you may have.

A woman is using a machine to check a person 's vision.

Be Prepared to Answer Questions About: 



  • Medical history: Many systemic conditions can cause complications to the eye.
  • Eye history: Many eye diseases are chronic and worsen with time, so it is important we know any prior mention of eye diseases, conditions, or injuries.
  • Family history: Many eye and systemic conditions are genetic. It is important for the doctor to understand your background to ensure your long-term health.
  • Hobbies: We want to help you see your best and ensure your eyes are protected while doing the things you love.

Eye Health Screening:


  • Retinal photography: Images of the back of the eye (retina) that allow us to view your macula, optic nerve, and blood vessels to monitor for disease.
  • Autorefractor: Also known as the “hot air balloon” machine, it takes an objective measurement of your cornea and optical prescription as you focus on an image.
  • Meibomian gland screening: Non-invasive infrared imaging of the oil gland structures within your eyelid to determine your risk of developing dry eye disease.


A woman is getting her eyes examined by Dr. Lyons
A woman is getting her eyes examined by Dr. Lyons

Eye Health Screening:


  • Retinal photography: Images of the back of the eye (retina) that allow us to view your macula, optic nerve, and blood vessels to monitor for disease.
  • Autorefractor: Also known as the “hot air balloon” machine, it takes an objective measurement of your cornea and optical prescription as you focus on an image.
  • Meibomian gland screening: Non-invasive infrared imaging of the oil gland structures within your eyelid to determine your risk of developing dry eye disease.
  • Macular pigment screening (>18 only): A test that allows us to measure the amount of pigmentation within the macula to determine your risk of developing macular degeneration.
  • Myopia risk screening (<18 only): A measurement of the length of the eye to determine if the child is at risk of becoming near-sighted.
  • Intraocular Pressure (IOP): Eye pressure is measured to screen for glaucoma or other conditions that affect IOP. This is done with a small device that flutters closely to the eye. No puff of air needed! :)


  • Macular pigment screening (>18 only): A test that allows us to measure the amount of pigmentation within the macula to determine your risk of developing macular degeneration.
  • Myopia risk screening (<18 only): A measurement of the length of the eye to determine if the child is at risk of becoming near-sighted.
  • Intraocular Pressure (IOP): Eye pressure is measured to screen for glaucoma or other conditions that affect IOP. This is done with a small device that flutters closely to the eye. No puff of air needed! :)
Dr. Lyons is examining a woman 's eye.

After your screening with the doctor assistants, you will then have your visit with the doctor.


Your doctor will:


  • Check the function of your neurological system and your eye muscles.
  • Perform a detailed check of your glasses prescription to ensure best vision possible and protection for your daily life, activities, and other visual needs.
  • In depth, dilated observation of retina and other internal structures of the eye.
  • Review all screening tests performed earlier in the visit.
  • (If you’re a contact lens wearer) Select contact lenses that are the best fit and prescription to make sure the eyes remain healthy.



Once your prescription is finalized and your examination is complete, your doctor will call an optical specialist to your room. 

The Optical Specialist Will:


  • Help you select the proper lenses that meet your visual needs, match what you have been prescribed, and offer protection to keep your eyes healthy for years to come.
  • Offer one-on-one styling to get you feeling and looking your best in your new eyeglasses and sunglasses.
  • Personally review your insurance to maximize your savings!
  • Order contact lens trials or annual supply to be delivered to your home.
  • Assist you in scheduling any future appointments with your doctors or opticians.
An optical specialist and a patient in front of a wall with glasses on it.

We want to ensure you have the best experience at Focal Pointe Eye Care. If you have any questions leading up to your appointment, please do not hesitate to contact the office by email, call, or text and we will respond promptly. We look forward to seeing you!

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