Clinic Info
Open Monday through Thursday 8 am to 5 pm and Friday 8 am to 3 pm.
Eye Exams
Eye Exams at Optometric Associates of Southern Maine
Optometrists are often the first line of defense against harmful eye conditions. Eye exams are very important because many diseases that threaten vision such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy have no or minimal symptoms until the disease has progressed. Through comprehensive eye exams, you can take care of your ocular function and health at the same time.
What Does a Complete Eye Exam Include?
Optometric Associates of Southern Maine optometrists leverage the powerful and evolving technology that is in the field to provide the most comprehensive care for their patients.
Comprehensive Ocular Examinations involve several different tests including:
- Full review of ocular, medical, and family history.
- Visual acuity to check near and distance vision
- Cover testing
- Pupil Response
- Extra-Ocular Motility testing.
- Visual Field testing.
- Biomicroscope examination of the eyes including retinal exam.
These tests can check for indications of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. Sometimes, inner-eye changes observed during an eye exam are the first symptoms of diseases like diabetes. This fact is why an eye exam can be beneficial for whole body wellness.
How Often Do I Need an Eye Exam?
Optometric Associates of Southern Maine generally recommends either yearly or biannual exams for adults, but the team personalizes your exam schedule for your situation. Consistency is vitally important when it comes to eye exams.
Are My Eyes Dilated During the Exam?
Most comprehensive eye exams require eye dilation. Dilated ocular examinations are important because it allows examination of a portion of your retina that would not otherwise be seen during the examination. It's similar to trying to look at a room through a view hole vs opening the door and looking inside. There is much that is overlooked in a non-dilated examination.
In some cases, dilation can be substituted with retinal imaging studies. Optometric Associates of Southern Maine offers an Optomap Ultra-Wide-Field retinal imager that can obtain upwards of 200 degrees or >80% of the retina in a single image, often without a need for dilation. Speak with the staff for more information, or see for yourself at https://www.optos.com/
Eye dilation is very easy, and it takes only a couple of small drops in each eye and usually takes full effect in 20-30 minutes. It is not painful to have your eyes dilated, but dilation could cause some side effects like light sensitivity and blurred vision for a few hours after your exam. Optometric Associates of Southern Maine professional eye specialists can let you know whether it’s safe to drive yourself home.