Eye Health

What actually happens in a comprehensive eye exam.

If your mental image of an eye exam is a puff of air and “better one, or better two?” — it's been a while. Here's what a comprehensive exam at Eyeland looks like, start to finish.

The workup

We start with the measurements: visual acuity, refraction (the better-one-better-two part, refined with modern instruments), binocular vision testing to check how your eyes work as a team, and eye pressure — measured without the puff. Nobody misses the puff.

Then the health evaluation: a visual-field screening for your peripheral vision, an anterior-segment check of the cornea and lens, and retinal imaging.

Why we photograph your retina

The retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels and nerve tissue can be examined directly, without a scalpel. A single high-resolution retinal photograph can surface early signs of glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetes, and hypertension — sometimes years before symptoms.

It also creates a baseline. Next year's photo gets compared against this year's, and subtle change becomes visible in a way a written note can't capture.

The conversation

The last part of the exam is the one we protect most: time to talk. How you use your eyes — screens, boating, golf, reading, night driving — determines what we recommend, from lens designs to sun protection to dry-eye prevention. Bring your questions and your current glasses.

If you haven't been seen in over a year, book the exam. An hour, once a year, for the only pair of eyes you get.

Talk to us about it.

Every topic in the journal is a conversation we're happy to have in person. Book a visit or just walk in.

Keep reading

More from the shop.

Quick answers

Common questions.

How often should I get an eye exam?

Once a year for most adults — annually without exception if you're over 60, diabetic, or have a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration. Kids should be seen before each school year.

How long does the exam take at Eyeland Optique?

About 45 to 60 minutes. We don't run a volume operation — the time is built in for imaging, testing, and an actual conversation about your eyes.

Do I need to be dilated every time?

Not always. Modern retinal imaging lets us examine most of the retina without drops in many cases; your doctor will tell you when dilation genuinely adds information.