NITASHA GUPTA, MD

HOW LONG IS AN EYE EXAM?

The length of your appointment depends on the purpose of your visit. First time visits and annual visits usually involve a complete and thorough examination of the entire eye which can take 30-60 minutes, sometimes longer if you are there for a glaucoma or retinal consultation. 

 

Follow up visits for a specific thing may be anywhere from 10-20 minutes. It also depends on your age (since many eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma occur as you get older), medical history (such as diabetes), and previous eye problems (prior diagnoses, infections, prior surgery, etc), if any. 

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WHAT IS DILATION

Dilation is when drops are instilled into the eyes so the back of the eye can be examined. This allows for a thorough examination of the health of the retina and optic nerve. This is usually performed at a minimum of once a year to evaluate for diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachments. It may be performed more than once a year if you have certain conditions such as diabetic eye disease or macular degeneration or if you develop symptoms such as floaters or flashes of light or an unexplained decrease in your vision. 

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HOW LONG DOES DILATION LAST?

Dilation can last up to 4 hours depending on your age. During this time your vision will be blurry, more so for reading, but distance vision may be slightly blurry as well. You will be more sensitive to light during this time as well and it is recommended to wear sunglasses. 

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WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN EYE EXAM?

You will first be seen by a technician who will ask you questions like the purpose of your visit. She will then check your vision and take some initial measurements and photos. Make sure to bring any glasses or contact lenses that you wear regularly along with any prescriptions you have received in the past, if available.  You will then be seen by Dr. Gupta who will perform the exam, discuss the findings, and determine the next best steps.