Optomap or Dilation: Which One is Right for You?

At Derby City Eye Care, we utilize advanced technology to provide comprehensive eye exams. Two of the methods we use to examine the retina are Optomap and dilation. Understanding the benefits of each can help you decide which option is best for your eye health.

What is Optomap?

Optomap is a revolutionary imaging technology that allows us to capture a wide-field view of your retina without the need for dilation. This quick and painless procedure provides a detailed image of the retina, enabling us to detect and monitor various eye conditions.

Benefits of Optomap

• Wide-Field View: Captures more than 80% of your retina in a single image.
• Comfort and Convenience: No need for dilation drops, which means no blurred vision or light sensitivity.
• Quick and Painless: The imaging process takes just a few seconds.
• Early Detection: Helps in the early detection of eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment.

What is Dilation?

Dilation involves using special eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing Jeremy D. Fowler, O.D. to examine the back of your eye (the retina) in greater detail. This traditional method is highly effective in detecting a wide range of eye conditions.

Benefits of Dilation:

• Detailed Examination: Provides a comprehensive view of the entire retina, including the peripheral areas.
• Thorough Diagnosis: Essential for detecting and monitoring eye conditions that may not be visible with other methods.
• Standard Practice: Widely used and accepted in comprehensive eye exams.

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between Optomap and dilation depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

• Comfort and Convenience: If you prefer a quick and comfortable experience without the temporary side effects of dilation, Optomap may be your preferred choice.
• Detailed Examination: If a thorough examination of the peripheral retina is necessary, dilation might be recommended.
• Frequency of Exams: Depending on your eye health and risk factors, Jeremy D. Fowler, O.D. may recommend one method over the other for regular monitoring.

Combining Both Methods

In some cases, combining both Optomap and dilation provides the most comprehensive view of your eye health. This approach ensures that no areas of the retina are overlooked and allows for the early detection and management of eye conditions.

Call Derby City Eye Care at 502-200-1920 to schedule an eye exam with our Crestwood optometrist. Alternatively: CLICK FOR AN APPOINTMENT