A dilated retinal exam is recommended for patients who are receiving a comprehensive eye exam, have never had a dilation, are very nearsighted, are symptomatic (seeing light flashes or floaters) or suspected of having eye disease or injury. We commonly put dilating drops into your eyes as part of our comprehensive eye exam to open your pupils so we can get a better look at the health of your lens, optic nerve, macula and peripheral retina. It normally takes about 30 minutes for the drops to open your pupil before we can do the exam and about four to six hours before your pupils will return to normal. A pair of disposable sunglasses will be available for you if you don’t have any to keep your eyes comfortable after the exam. If you are uncomfortable driving with dilated eyes, you may wish to bring a driver with you. If you have any concerns about this procedure, please feel free to discuss it with your doctor.

Retinal Photography is available and accomplished when retinal or optic nerve problems are found during dilation and need to be documented. The photo will aid in tracking any future changes. This procedure is recommended as a baseline if you have problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, macular degeneration or other diseases.