Eye Dilation

A truly comprehensive eye exam almost always includes eye dilation—the addition of special eye drops that “open up” the pupil at the front of the eyeball. This allows for a maximum amount of light to enter the eyeball and is the most effective way for the doctor to examine the structures inside the eye. It vital to the detection of diseases like Macular Degeneration, diabetic eye disease, Glaucoma, Cataracts and more.

Eye dilation is commonly done after the preliminary testing of visual acuity, pressure testing, and any vision-correction measurements have been taken.

Having your eyes dilated doesn’t hurt—it just feels a little strange. Your pupil at the front of your eye automatically adjusts to light intensity, closing when light is more intense, and opening in lower lighting conditions—much like an automatic camera adjusts to take photos indoors or outdoors.

The drops used to dilate your eyes don’t wear off immediately, that’s why it’s recommended you bring sunwear with you to a comprehensive eye exam. And if you’re driving, you may want to consider having a friend with you to help you drive home, or assist you if you feel slightly disoriented.

(Remember, your eyes won’t automatically adjust to changing light conditions until the drops wear off.)

In short, yes. Most vision screenings done at a pediatrician’s office, health clinic or community health organizations don’t include eye dilation. But these basic vision tests cannot help you diagnose eye disease, and are certainly no substitute for a regular and thorough eye exam from a qualified eyecare professional.

Most eye doctors will tell you with very few exceptions, dilated eyes mean the best possible eye exam environment.