Richmond Hill
Eye Care
Eye Exam FAQs
How often should I have an eye exam?
The frequency of eye exams depends on your age, overall health, and risk of developing eye problems. Generally, healthy adults with no vision problems should have an exam at least every two years. Children, seniors, and those with existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should have exams annually.
What should I bring to my eye appointment?
Please bring your current glasses and/or contact lens prescription, a list of any medications you are taking, and your health insurance information. If you wear contact lenses, it's also helpful to have your contact lens packaging or the lenses themselves with you.
Will my eyes be dilated during the exam?
Dilation is often necessary to provide a comprehensive look at the health of your retina and the back of your eye. Dr. Luong will determine if dilation is required based on your specific needs and medical history. Your vision may be blurry and light-sensitive for a few hours afterward, so bringing sunglasses is recommended.
Is a Richmond Hill eye exam covered by OHIP?
OHIP covers annual eye exams for patients under the age of 20 and seniors aged 65 and over. Additionally, patients with specific medical conditions (like diabetes or glaucoma) may be eligible for covered exams. Contact our Richmond Hill clinic at (905) 731-3700 to verify your coverage.
Why is digital retinal imaging important for my eye exam?
Digital retinal imaging allows our optometrists to capture a high-resolution, permanent record of your retina. This is essential for tracking small changes in your eye health over time, helping us detect conditions like diabetes or hypertension early.
Does your clinic offer OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans?
Yes, this non-invasive imaging test takes cross-section pictures of your retina, allowing our doctors to see each distinctive layer. It is the gold standard for managing glaucoma and retinal diseases.
My vision feels perfectly fine — do I really need an annual eye exam?
Absolutely. One of the biggest misconceptions about eye health is that clear vision equals healthy eyes. Many serious eye conditions—such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy—develop gradually without early warning signs or noticeable changes to your vision.
How long does a comprehensive eye exam usually take?
The duration of a comprehensive eye exam can vary depending on the individual's needs and the complexity of the exam. On average, the exam may take between 30 minutes to an hour. Factors such as additional Comprehensive Eye Tests, discussions about your eye health, and any necessary follow-up appointments can impact the total time spent during the exam.