Your pupils are the window to the inside, and information-holding back, of your eye. Dilation drops allow your pupil to widen, opening the door to more light and a wider view of your eye. The doctor will want to dilate your eyes if he is monitoring you for specific eye health diseases and as a part of your routine eye exam.

Once dilated, the doctor will use his slit lamp and a special magnifying glass to view the tissues at the back of your eye, including the macula, retina, and optic nerve. The exam may show abnormal growth of blood vessels, leaking blood vessels, changes to the optic nerve fibers, fatty deposits, changes in pigmentation, and tears and holes in the tissues. These signs, along with other potential changes detected during an exam, can lead to a diagnosis that if had gone undetected could lead to vision loss.

Dilation drops affect the individual patient differently. Your eyes will remain dilated anywhere from 4 to 24, or more, hours. During this time your eyes will be sensitive to light and you will experience blurry vision. Most people can continue with their day as planned, while others need assistance with transportation.

Do not want your eyes dilated? Talk to us! We offer the Optomap! This machine allows us to take a photo of your eye while you are naturally dilated. No drops, no discomfort, no dilation.