FAQ's

I've never had an eye exam. What can I expect?

Regular eye exams are essential, but if you've never had one, you may be a bit reluctant. Fortunately, these things are typically painless, and they can help ensure your vision isn't compromised in the coming year. Expect to fill out a form with both your vision and medical history when you first enter the office. We'll evaluate your eyes with a number of different tests. We'll track the way your eye muscles move and do an external and pupillary reactions test. We'll also do a visual acuity test and a retinoscopy. We carefully examine your cornea for damage and your retina. Much of this is painless and just requires you to sit still as we take a look at your eye. We also typically perform a glaucoma test and in some cases, we'll dilate your pupils to complete a full examination. If you do need a contact lens prescription or glasses, we'll also do a refraction test to determine your exact prescription.

Can I complete a new patient form online?

Absolutely. It will help you save some time in the office. Just click on our Downloads page and select New Patient Registration to fill out the form online or download it and bring it with you to your next appointment.

Do you sell eyewear?

We don't sell eyewear directly, but Eyewear Expressions next door does.

How often should I have my eyes checked?

You should schedule an eye appointment on an annual basis.

Is my computer causing eyestrain?

It's certainly possible. Statistics have indicated that nearly fifty percent of those who work extensively with a computer on a daily basis experience eye strain. The single most important thing you can do is get an eye exam. After that, little things like proper lighting, good displays, and glare minimizers can help.

When should an adult's eyes be examined?

Adult examinations of the eyes should be performed on a regular basis.

• Young adults (ages 20 - 39) should have their eyes examined every three-five years.
• Adults ages (ages 40 - 64) should have their eyes examined every two-four years.
• Seniors (over 65 years of age) should have their eyes examined every one-two years.

High risk adults include:

• People with diabetes
• People with glaucoma or strong family history of glaucoma
• People with AIDS/HIV

Can my child wear contact lenses during sports activities?

Yes, contact lenses provide excellent vision for most sports. However, they do not protect the eyes from injury. Therefore, contact lens wearers should use polycarbonate sports safety goggles or glasses when participating in sports.

Do contact lenses prevent nearsightedness (myopia) from getting worse?

No, there is no evidence that wearing contact lenses improves vision or prevents myopia from getting worse.

What is a chalazion?

The term chalazion refers to a small lump with chronic inflammation in the eyelid. A gradual enlargement can be felt near the margin of the lid due to swelling in one of the eyelid glands, called the meibomian gland. It forms when the gland opening becomes clogged with oil secretions. A chalazion is not an infection from bacteria and is not cancerous.