Comprehensive Eye Exams

How often you should get a comprehensive eye exam can vary depending on several factors and circumstances. Pediatric patients need an exam between 6 and 12 months old, once between 3 and 5, and then annually between 6 and 17.
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Adult patients generally need a comprehensive eye exam every two years through age 64 and annually at 65 or older. However, patients who are considered at-risk may need more frequent exams.

What to Expect During an eye exam

Your comprehensive eye exam will start with a thorough discussion with the doctor. You will be asked about things like medical history and status, if you are taking any medications, and whether you are experiencing any changes in your visions or concerning symptoms.

Visual Acuity Measurements

Visual acuity testing is done to assess how well you can see. You may be asked to read letters from a chart at different distances and with both eyes together and separately. You will also undergo evaluations to determine your depth perception, how well you can see colors, and the acuity of your peripheral vision. The eye doctor will also be looking at how well your eyes respond when exposed to different levels of light.

Eye Health Evaluation

This part of the comprehensive eye exam will involve using different tests and procedures to assess the different parts of the eye. The eye is made up of several internal structures, which are visible using digital technologies and microscopes. The different parts of the eye may show signs of disease or problems, such as retinopathy or macular degeneration.

Corneal Curvature Tests

Topography and keratometry are two tests done to measure the surface of the eye to detect curvature. During these tests, the eye doctor will be using a circle of light and the reflection of that light to measure how the cornea curves.

Refraction Tests

Refraction is done to look for what optometrists refer to as refractive errors. Refractive errors are issues like astigmatism or nearsightedness. The eye doctor will use a phoropter and a retinoscope to evaluate how the eye focuses with different lens powers.

Has it been a while since you’ve visited a Grosse Pointe Woods eye doctor for an exam? Reach out to our office at Pointe Vision Center to schedule an appointment.