Comprehensive Eye Exams
A comprehensive eye exam looks at multiple aspects of vision and eye health, not just how well you can see. Specialized equipment and procedures, which are not available as part of a vision screening, are needed to adequately evaluate eyes and vision.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends annual comprehensive eye exams for most adults and children over the age of 6. Even if vision seems clear, a comprehensive exam can detect any underlying problems that may not yet be noticeable.
It is especially important for children to have regular eye exams, as their eyes are constantly changing and growing. To learn more about our exams and recommendations for children, check out our page on pediatric eye exams.
Only a doctor of optometry or ophthalmologist can perform a comprehensive eye and vision examination. These doctors have the expertise and equipment needed to diagnose and treat eye conditions.
A comprehensive adult eye examination includes:
Patient and family health history
Visual acuity measurement
Preliminary tests of visual function and eye health, including depth perception, color vision, peripheral (side) vision and the response of the pupils to light
Assessment of refractive status to determine the presence of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) or astigmatism
Evaluation of eye focusing, eye teaming and eye movement abilities
Eye health examination
Additional tests as needed
It's important to remember that vision screenings have their advantages, but they are not a substitute for regular professional vision care. Even if someone passes a vision screening, the only way to confirm or rule out any eye disease or vision problem is through a comprehensive eye examination.
For more information from the AOA about comprehensive exams, please visit their website.
WHY CHOOSE OUR OFFICE FOR YOUR FAMILY?
Our team of eye doctors is highly qualified to diagnose and treat patients of all ages. All of our doctors have received residency training in various areas, including primary care, low vision, ocular disease, pediatrics and binocular vision. Residency training is a voluntary, additional year of specialized education that goes beyond the standard optometric curriculum—highlighting the advanced expertise and dedication of our doctors in delivering exceptional eye care.
Will I need to have my eyes dilated? Why is it important?
Dilation is an important part of a comprehensive eye exam. It involves the use of eye drops to dilate or widen the pupil, allowing the eye doctor to get a better view of the internal structures of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, lens, and blood vessels. This allows for the detection of eye diseases like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments—all conditions that can cause permanent vision loss. Side effects include blurred near vision and light sensitivity for about 4 to 6 hours.
For most people, we recommend dilation at least every 2 years. People with history of certain eye conditions, high prescriptions, or certain medical conditions—such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol—should be dilated annually to ensure the retina is healthy.
In some cases, dilation helps the doctor accurately determine the glasses prescription, especially for young children, so the doctor may recommend it for this reason as well.