If you have been referred to us by another eye care or other health professional, you might be wondering what to expect on your first visit. As retina specialists, we evaluate and treat diseases in the back part of the eye- the vitreous, retina, and choroid. There are many such diseases that we evaluate and treat, but some of the most common include macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, vitreous hemorrhage, retinal tears or holes, and retinal detachments.
On your first visit, you will first have your vision checked, you intraocular pressure measured, and your eyes dilated. Often, people ask if it is necessary to dilate their pupils. The answer is yes, it is necessary. The way we see the retina is through the pupil, so it must be dilated for us to perform a complete exam.
Once your pupils are dilated, we will begin the testing process. Most patients will have an OCT, a test that looks at the layers of your macula, or center of your vision. And, most patients will have color photos taken of your retina. These tests are usually very quick and easy for the patient. Some patients will also require a fluorescein angiography. This is a dye test that looks at the circulation and structures of the retina and choroid. This dye is inserted into a vein in your arm or hand, and the photos are taken over a period of approximately 10 minutes. Fluorescein angiography is usually very well tolerated by the patient but can leave your vision blurry for a few minutes. Rarely, people have an allergic reaction to the dye, but before any test is done, the technician will discuss things that you should be aware of during the test.
After the testing is completed, you will then see the doctor. He or she will perform an examination as well as go over all of your testing with you. If treatment is necessary, you will receive a thorough description of the treatments available including risks, benefits, and alternatives to these treatments. Some of the various treatments that we perform include injections into the eye, lasers, and surgeries. Often, the first treatment is given or scheduled that day!
Overall, your first visit to any retina specialist will most likely be different than any eye examination you have had in the past due to the different tests that we perform. The first visit can last anywhere from 1-3 hours depending on your eye disease and treatment requirements.
This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Please seek the advice of a health care professional.
