What to Expect

Why do so many people skip their annual eye exam?  We believe it's because they don't know what to expect. For this reason, we feel it's important to outline the process so you can feel comfortable knowing there's nothing to worry about.

Upon your arrival, our receptionist will welcome you as a member of our practice.  We will ask you to complete a few forms.  If you prefer to complete them in advance in the comfort of your home, the forms may be found in the Your Visit section under Online Forms.  This paperwork provides us with your health history and other information related to providing you with the best vision solutions. 

Below, we've also included a list of the most commonly asked questions about coming in for an eye exam.

Why is my personal background important?

Dr. Lieske will review any current vision problems, your general health, current medication as well as discuss your hobbies and lifestyle requirements to better tailor the examination to your needs.

Why does the doctor ask me, "Which is better, one or two?"

Dr. Lieske will ask these questions during the portion of the examination when your prescription is established.  Dr. Lieske will ask you to compare a series of lenses to determine which is clearer for you.  As the differences become less noticeable, Dr. Lieske will be closer to finalizing your prescription.  For this reason, if you're having a hard time choosing between the options, it's a good thing!

What is the test with the puff of air for?

The puff of air measures the fluid pressure in your eyes.  This is an important test, as high pressure may be an indicator of glaucoma.

Why is it necessary to know my blood pressure?

High blood pressure can affect the blood vessels in your eyes and can lead to future vision problems.

Why am I asked to follow a light with my eyes?

This test is used to determine how your pupils and eye muscles react, and is important in assessing neurological function.

Is it necessary for doctor to dilate my pupils during the exam?

Pupil dilation is not always necessary.  Dr. Lieske will make this decision during your exam.  If required, this painless process is like opening a door so the doctor can fully exam the retina.  Dilation can also help detect diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and macular degeneration.

What can I expect from the overall exam?

In addition to determining your prescription, or how well you see up close and far away, your eye examination will also check to make sure your eyes are healthy. 

If you have not printed and filled out your exam paperwork prior to you exam, then please arrive 20 minutes before your appointment time to do so.

For the first part of your exam, an optometric technician will create a file for you in our Electrnic Healthcare Records system by entering all of your previous medical and vision information, as well as your current concerns or problems.  The technician will then gather preliminary information about your eyes such as you visual acuities, interocular pressures and peripheral vision.

Next the doctor will review your past and present medical and vision information as well as any current concerns or problems that you are experiencing. Then, the doctor will use a phoropter to determine if you have any refractive error (near sighted, far sighted, astigmatism or presbyopia). Then the doctor uses various equipment to view the internal structures of the eyes to check for any early indicators of possible eye disorders, such as cataracts, retinal problems and glaucoma.