Before undergoing any type of eye surgery, your doctor will typically perform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate your overall eye health and determine the best treatment plan for you. Depending on the specific surgery, additional tests may be necessary. Here are some common tests that are often suggested by eye surgeons before performing an eye surgery:
1. Visual acuity test:
The visual acuity test is commonly used to measure an individual’s ability to see objects clearly from a specific distance. It examines how well the letters or symbols are viewed from a distance. This test is done to diagnose any underlying issue with an individual’s vision. The letters and numbers are required to be read out from the Snellen Chart. The size of the characters get smaller as they are read from top to bottom. The ability to read the characters correctly without squinting is the goal behind this test. The chart is placed 20 feet away. If an individual is able to read the smallest letter, then their vision is considered 20/20 which is the normal vision.
2. Refraction test:
A part of routine eye examination, a refraction test can determine the need for glasses or contact lenses. Doctors might also prescribe appropriate intraocular lenses (IOL) in case of a cataract surgery. It is also called a vision test. The value of 20/20 is considered to be optimal vision, where an individual can read letters that are 20 feet away. Individuals with vision below 20/20 are known to have a refractive error, which is caused by the shape of the eye preventing light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurry vision. During a refraction test, an eye specialist uses a machine called a phoropter to test for refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These refractive errors can be corrected with lenses, and in some cases, corrective surgeries such as LASIK or PRK may be recommended for severe refractive errors.
3. Dilated eye exam:
It is a part of a routine check up that helps evaluate the health of the eyes. It involves dilating the pupils by adding eye drops. This is done to examine the retina, optic nerve, and other structures inside the eyes. This exam is often used to diagnose and monitor certain eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Dilated eye exams can also help to diagnose other underlying issues in addition to vision problems such as myopia and hyperopia. The dilation of the pupils can cause blurry vision and sensitivity to light, which usually lasts for several hours.
4. Corneal topography:
Corneal topography, also known as photokeratoscopy or videokeratography, creates a detailed map of the surface of the cornea. This technique uses an instrument called a corneal topographer to measure the curvature of the cornea at different points, which helps to diagnose and treat a number of eye conditions. It can also help assess the fit of lenses for the eyes. The corneal topographer uses a Placido disc or laser to project a series of rings or dots onto the cornea and captures the reflection of these patterns to create a three-dimensional map of the cornea’s surface. The procedure is fast and painless, and it provides detailed information on the shape and thickness of the cornea.
5. Tonometry:
Tonometry measures the pressure inside the eyes also known as intraocular pressure (IOP). It helps detect and monitor certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma. The eyes are filled with different types of fluids which are replaced with new ones regularly to keep the eyes healthy. When the drainage of this system is clogged, it leads to a build up of these fluids and raises the pressure in the eyes. When this condition is left untreated, it can lead to glaucoma. A tonometry test can be helpful in examining and monitoring eye health. A tonometry involves a tonometer which measures the resistance of the cornea to a slight pressure. Another method of tonometry involves the use of a tonopen, to measure the pressure with a small tip that touches the cornea. The result is recorded in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Normal IOP ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg, but this can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s age and race.
6. Optical coherence tomography (OCT):
It is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to create detailed cross-sectional images of the retina to diagnose and monitor various eye conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. The test is quick and painless, and it can also help evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
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If you are looking for a reliable and reputable eye hospital with experienced eye surgeons, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have a team of highly skilled and experienced eye surgeons who have a proven track record of successfully treating a wide range of eye conditions. At our hospitals, we use the latest technology and techniques to provide our patients with the best possible care. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including routine eye exams, cataract surgery, LASIK, glaucoma management, corneal transplants, and more.