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What Happens During a Complete Eye Examination?

Written by the Mungale Eye Hospital team

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sachin Mungale, MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology) · Fellowship in Glaucoma, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad · Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-12281 and Dr. Meeta Mungale, MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), DNB · Fellowship in Cornea & Anterior Segment, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad · Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-39262 · Reviewed on 20 October 2026

Published 20 October 2026

Part of our guide: Eye Check-Up After 40: Tests, Frequency & Warning Signs

Illustration: eye doctor using a slit lamp to examine a patient in a modern eye clinic.

A complete eye examination checks both how well you see and how healthy your eyes are. Knowing the steps can make the visit easier.

Step by Step

History

Your doctor asks about symptoms, medicines, general health and family eye history.

Vision test

You read letters from a chart, one eye at a time.

Refraction

Lenses are used to find your glasses power.

Eye movements and alignment

Checks for squint or muscle problems.

Eye pressure

A quick puff of air or a gentle probe measures pressure, important for glaucoma.

Slit-lamp examination

A microscope with a bright light examines the eyelids, cornea, lens and more.

Dilated examination

Drops widen the pupil so the retina and optic nerve can be seen.

Extra Tests When Needed

  • OCT scan of the retina or optic nerve
  • Visual field test
  • Corneal topography
  • Retinal photographs
  • What to Bring

  • Current glasses and lenses
  • List of medicines
  • Previous eye reports
  • Sunglasses for after dilation
  • After the Exam

    Dilation can blur near vision and cause light sensitivity for a few hours. Avoid driving until it settles.

    Key Takeaways

  • A full exam checks vision and eye health.
  • Dilation allows the retina to be examined.
  • Extra tests are used when needed.
  • Bring your records.
  • Plan for blurry vision afterwards.
  • Final Thoughts

    A thorough exam gives a clear picture of your eye health. For a complete eye examination, you can consult Dr. Meeta Mungale at Mungale Eye Hospital in Vadodara.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    No. Tests are usually painless, though bright lights can be uncomfortable.

    It is recommended for a complete check of the retina, particularly in adults with risk factors.

    It is safer to avoid driving until your vision settles.

    Your clinic may ask you to remove them. Ask when you book.

    Usually 30 to 60 minutes.

    Yes, if you need one.

    Sources and further reading

  • AAO: Eye exams 101
  • NEI: Get a dilated eye exam
  • Reviewed by

    MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology) · Fellowship in Glaucoma, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad

    Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-12281

    MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), DNB · Fellowship in Cornea & Anterior Segment, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad

    Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-39262

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