Dilated Eye Exam

Your retina is the light-sensing layer in back (inside) of your eye.  In order to examine your retina, your doctor will dilate your pupils (the central black part that lets light in) with medicated eye drops that make the pupils larger temporarily.   It takes 15-30 mintues for your eyes to dilate.  Your doctor will then use light from a microscope and magnifying lenses to look at the health of the inside of your eye where all of the most important structures for your vision are.  Dilation lasts anywhere from 3-6 hours and you may be light sensitive or have blurred near vision until the drops wear off.  It is a good idea to bring a pair of sunglasses with you when you get your eyes dilated to make you more comfortable after your exam.