Eye exam
Every visit to Estudios Oftalmológicos begins here. During the exam the specialist checks how well you see, measures your prescription, examines the eye inside and out, and decides whether you need further testing, treatment or a procedure.
What the exam includes
A complete eye exam here is more than reading letters off a chart. The standard exam includes:
- Visual acuity. How well each eye sees, with and without correction.
- Refraction. The exact prescription you need for glasses or contact lenses.
- Slit-lamp examination. A close look at the eyelid, conjunctiva, cornea and lens.
- Intraocular pressure. The key measurement for ruling out glaucoma.
- Dilated fundus exam. A check of the retina and optic nerve, usually with the pupil dilated.
When to book
You do not have to wait until your sight is failing. Book an appointment if you notice:
- Blurred distance or near vision, or vision that changed over a short period.
- Headaches when reading, driving or using screens.
- Burning, grittiness, a persistently red eye or watering.
- New floaters, flashes of light or a shadow in your field of vision.
- A family history of glaucoma, or a diagnosis of diabetes or high blood pressure.
If you have never had your eyes checked and you are over 40, that alone is reason enough for a visit.
Subspecialties available
When your case calls for it, the general ophthalmologist refers you internally to the right subspecialty, so you never have to go looking elsewhere. We cover cornea and anterior segment, retina and vitreous, glaucoma, oculoplastic surgery, pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus, laser vision correction, and ENT.
How to prepare
- Bring your ID and your health plan authorization if one applies.
- Bring the glasses you currently wear, and your previous prescription if you have it.
- Bring a list of the medications you take, including eye drops.
- Come with someone and do not drive. Your pupils will most likely be dilated, which leaves your vision blurred and light-sensitive for four to six hours.
- If you wear contact lenses, take them out at least a day before if your prescription is going to be measured.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the exam take?
Allow between 45 and 90 minutes at the clinic. The exam itself is shorter, but dilating the pupils takes 20 to 30 minutes to take effect before the doctor can examine the back of the eye.
Will I get a glasses prescription the same day?
In most cases, yes. If the doctor finds something that affects the measurement, such as a cataract or significant dry eye, they may prefer to treat that first and prescribe afterwards, so the prescription is stable.
Can I come without a referral?
Yes, you can be seen as a private patient. If you are coming through a Colombian health plan, you will need the authorization that applies to your plan and current agreement.
How often should I have my eyes checked?
A healthy adult with no symptoms, every one to two years. With diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, high myopia or a family history of eye disease, checks are yearly or as often as your specialist advises.
This information is educational
What is described here is the usual approach and does not replace a medical assessment. The diagnosis and treatment for your case are decided by your treating specialist.
Need an appointment?
We will point you to the right line for your location and tell you whether it is open right now. One step.