New Patients
Your first retina visit, explained.
A retina appointment is more detailed than a routine eye exam. Knowing the steps ahead of time can make your visit feel easier and help you arrive prepared.
What to Expect
Your visit, step by step
Your exact visit will depend on your symptoms and retinal condition. Most new-patient visits include check-in, several measurements, dilation, imaging, a physician examination, and a discussion of next steps.
Check-In and History
We will review your paperwork, current medications, medical and surgical history, symptoms, and the reason for your referral.
Vision and Eye Pressure
A technician will check your vision, measure eye pressure, and perform the initial portion of your eye examination.
Dilating Drops
Drops widen the pupils so the retina specialist can examine the back of the eye. The drops need time to take effect.
Retinal Imaging
Your doctor may order OCT, retinal photographs, or other imaging based on the reason for your visit.
Physician Examination
The retina specialist will examine your eyes, review the images, explain the findings, and answer questions.
Plan or Treatment
You will receive a recommended care plan. When medically appropriate, office treatment may be offered during the same visit.
Common Parts of the Visit
Dilation, OCT, and injections
These are common in retina care, but not every patient needs every test or treatment. Your care team will explain what is recommended for you.
Dilation
Dilating drops make the pupils larger so the retina can be examined thoroughly. Near vision may be blurry and bright light may feel uncomfortable for several hours. Bring sunglasses, and consider having someone drive you home.
OCT Imaging
Optical coherence tomography uses light to create detailed cross-sectional images of the retina. It is noninvasive and helps your doctor look for fluid, swelling, or structural changes and compare them over time.
Eye Injections
Some retinal conditions are treated with medication placed inside the eye during an office procedure. If an injection is recommended, the eye is numbed and cleaned first, and the physician will review the reason, expected benefits, risks, and follow-up plan with you.
Visit Length
Please reserve 2–4 hours for an initial visit. Dilation, imaging, additional testing, urgent findings, or same-day treatment can affect the total time. Follow-up visits may be shorter.
Paperwork and Preparation
What to bring
Complete information helps your care team understand your health, coordinate with the referring office, and make your visit more efficient.
- Photo identification and current insurance cards
- A complete list of medications, including eye drops
- Your medical history, past surgeries, and medication allergies
- Relevant family medical and eye history
- Your referring doctor's name and contact information
- The reason for referral and any records or imaging provided to you
- Sunglasses for light sensitivity after dilation
- A family member or friend to drive, take notes, and help with questions
Paperwork tip: Arrive early enough to complete registration forms. Bring a written list of your symptoms, when they began, and any questions you want to discuss.