Frequently Asked Questions

How long has the Optomap been around?

            “The Optomap was approved by FDA in 1999.”

How many offices have this technology?

            “I don’t know the exact number, but it is available throughout the US. In this area, we are one of a select few practices using this technology. In fact, we are the leading Optos practice in North Carolina.”

Is the Optomap as comprehensive as the old way I had my eye examined?

            “The Optomap gives your doctor a more comprehensive view than was previously available, and adds to your doctors ability to diagnose the health of your eye.” 

How soon will the doctor see the results?

            “The doctor will review the results with you today.”

What does the Optomap tell the doctor?

            “The Optomap allows the doctor to assess the health of your retina.”

Why is it important for the doctor to look at the retina?

            “The sensitive tissue that makes up the retina is susceptible to a variety of diseases and it is essential to catch any problems early in their progression to avoid vision loss.”

Do I need to have an Optomap exam? 

           “Your doctor strongly recommends that you do.”

Is this the best exam?

            “Your doctor is intent to give you the best exam possible, that is why we now have the Optomap exam available to you.”

If I don’t have an Optomap exam, will I still get a good exam?

            “Of course your doctor will still give a good exam, however you should know that you will be depriving your doctor of a tool that is proven to help them to detect problems earlier.”

What age groups are candidates? 

            “The Optomap works for anyone.  Children as young as 4 have had the Optomap.”

Can my child be tested?

            “Yes.”

Can I wear my contact lenses for during the Optomap exam?

           “Yes.”

Will it tell me if I have cataracts?

           “No, the Optomap is looking at the back of your eye, and cataracts are a problem that occurs on the front of your eye.  The Optomap will tell you if you have diseases such as Diabetic Retinopathy, Hypertensive Retinopathy, Retinal Holes, Tears and Detachments, Macular Degeneration, Malignant Melanomas and many other retinal disorders.”

How long will an Optomap take?

           “About 5 minutes.”

I don't have any complaints; I see well, why should I get this?

            “When detected early enough, many retinal problems can be treated to avoid vision loss.  However, once a retinal problem has caused a loss in vision, it is almost never reversible.  Early detection is vital to preserving good eye health.”

I have a family history of diabetes, should I have this done? Why?

          “It is particularly important for people who are at risk for diabetes to have an Optomap since you are particularly prone to problems with the retina that could lead to vision loss.”

If I have this done, will I still need to be dilated?

            “The Optomap does not require dilation.  However, if your doctor should see an area that they feel is suspicious you may be dilated.”

Does this mean I will not be dilated? My doctor has told me I always need to be dilated!

            “The reason your doctor told you that is because prior to the Optomap, there was no technology available that gave the doctor such a comprehensive view of your retina – now that the Optomap is available it is possible to avoid dilation in most cases.”

I was dilated during my last exam; do I need this today?

            “Yes, it is important that your doctor views your retina during each eye exam.”

Can I drive afterward?

            “Yes, the Optomap exam will NOT blur your vision or make you sensitive to light.”

Will I still see blurry up close? Does this hurt?

            “No, the Optomap is very comfortable for you.”

Can taking an Optomap cause any damage?

            “No, the Optomap exam has been approved by FDA to be safe.”

How often is it recommended to have an Optomap done?

            “The Optomap should be part of every comprehensive eye exam, and you should have your eyes completely examined once per year.” 

How safe is the procedure...did you say it was done with lasers?

            “No, the Optomap exam has been approved by FDA to be safe.”

How do you clean the eyepiece? 

            “With alcohol.”

Is it sanitary?

            “Yes.”

Will this change my prescription? Will I need glasses after this?

            “The Optomap will not change the current health of your eye, only help your doctor to better diagnose the health of your retina.”

I am pregnant; can I have the test done?

            “Yes.”

Why do you have to take so many “pictures” of my eyes?

            “Unless there are any problems found, or your doctor needs more information, the Optomap will be the only picture of your retina taken at this visit.”

Is it covered by Insurance?  Why do I have to pay extra for this exam?  Why isn't this covered by Insurance?

            “No, unfortunately, vision coverage plans do not offer coverage for advanced diagnostic screening.”

Is my co-pay included in this fee?

            “No.”