Figuring out how to fit an eye exam into your busy schedule is easier when you have a sense of the time commitment that might be involved.
A comprehensive eye exam typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes. However, your total time at the office can change based on a few different factors like your vision needs and what’s included in the exam.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your visit includes more than just the time you spend with your eye doctor. An eye exam is a complete process that’s designed to check your vision and the health of your eyes from beginning to end.
Your Health History Review
You’ll start by talking about your overall health. This conversation covers any past eye conditions, your family’s health history, and any medications you currently take. This information helps us build a complete picture of your eye health.
Preliminary Vision Checks
Before you see your eye doctor, a few initial tests provide a baseline for your eye health. These quick checks measure aspects like your side vision, eye pressure, and how you see colors.
The Exam with your Eye Doctor
Your eye doctor then performs several tests to refine your prescription and check the health of your eyes. This often involves:
- Reading letters from an eye chart to test your visual sharpness.
- Looking through different lenses to find what gives you the clearest vision.
- A close look at the front and back of your eyes using a special light and microscope.
Factors That Affect Your Exam Time
Several factors can make your appointment a bit shorter or longer.
Your First Visit vs. A Return Visit
A first-time visit takes a little longer because the team at your optometrist’s office creates a new health record for you. Return visits are often quicker, as your information is already available.
A Contact Lens Fit
If you need a contact lens exam and fitting, your eye doctor takes additional measurements of your eyes. For new wearers of contact lenses, this appointment includes time to learn how to put in and take out contacts.
Pupil Dilation
Sometimes, your eye doctor needs to perform a dilated eye exam, which involves widening your pupils with special drops. This gives a better view of the back of your eye and can add some time to your visit.
Additional Tests
Depending on what we find during your eye exam, we may wish to conduct additional tests. In many cases, we recommend that you have your retina evaluated.
How to Prepare for Your Eye Exam
To help your appointment move along efficiently, please bring:
- Your current glasses or contact lenses.
- A list of any medications you take.
- Your vision insurance card.
- If you’re getting a dilated eye exam, bring sunglasses for the ride home.
What Happens After the Exam
Once your exam is complete, your eye doctor will advise you on any necessary next steps.
Get Prescription Glasses
If you need new glasses, you’re welcome to browse our selection of eyeglass frames. It typically takes about seven to ten business days for your new glasses to be ready.
Get Contact Lenses
If you are a contact lens wearer, you can order your new prescription right away. You may even be able to leave with a trial pair the same day while you wait for your full supply.
Keep Your Vision Clear
Your vision is a key part of your daily life. At EyeQ Optical, our team is here to help you maintain clear sight and healthy eyes for years to come. For personalized care for your whole family, schedule your appointment with us today.
