F.A.Q.

How should I prepare for my eye examination?

Contact lens wearers must stop using them a few days beforehand.

HARD & GAS PERMEABLE LENSES: 3 days before
SOFT LENSES: 1 day before
DISPOSABLE LENSES: 1 day before

If the patient would like to assess his/her suitability for refractive surgery, lenses must not be used according to the following table:

HARD & GAS PERMEABLE LENSES: 15 days before
SOFT LENSES: 3-4 days before
DISPOSABLE LENSES: 1 day before

Patients must bring all previous clinical documentation and a list of any medicines they are taking.

See Eye Examination

Will my pupils be dilated during the visit?

Yes, in most cases the pupils will be dilated.

How long do the effects of eye drops last?

The effects of the eye drops depend on the cycloplegic drops used:

  • Visumidriatic - is given to adolescent and adult patients and its effects vary from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the dosage. The patient may drive an hour after the visit.
  • Ciclolux - is given to children and young adolescents. Its effects last for 24 hours.
  • Atropina - is given to very young children and to those affected by strabismus. The effects last for 15 days.

Are there any eye drops that can make the effects of the dilation fade faster?

No, there is no such type of eye drops used.

Can I drive after the examination or does someone have to come with me?

Particularly if patients have the following problems, it is preferable if they ask someone to accompany them: those with high level refractive defects, serious disorders, or patients who have to undergo ARGON LASER treatment of the retina.

For patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding: do the drops have any side-effects on the foetus or on my milk?

No, cycloplegic drops do not in any way harm patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding, or the foetus.

How long does the visit last?

The examination always includes any related diagnostic tests and takes at least one hour.

Will my eye pressure be measured (Intraocular Pressure)?

Yes, eye pressure is ALWAYS measured after the age of 25, and earlier in cases which are at risk.

See Essential Tests

Will the back of the eye be checked?

Yes, the back of the eye is examined every time.

At what age can children have their first examination?

Children can be examined soon after they are born. All children, even those without any abnormalities, must be examined at the age of 3.

To learn more: go to CHILDREN.

Can the pupils of young children be dilated?

Yes, you can and you MUST always dilate the pupils of even the youngest patients.