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01

Eye examinations and consultations

Eye examinations and consultations enable timely assessment of vision status and monitoring of eye health. Based on the examination, it is possible to accurately determine whether further interventions are necessary and to select the most appropriate approach for each patient.

Examinations also enable early detection of retinal changes, including diabetic damage and degenerative macular diseases, which is crucial for preserving vision.
Assessment of risk and monitoring of elevated intraocular pressure are also performed, which can prevent the development of glaucoma in the early stages of the disease.

In patients who have already undergone surgery, examinations serve to monitor the results of the procedure and provide long-term follow-up of vision stability.

02

General ophthalmological examination

A general ophthalmological examination is a fundamental examination that assesses eye health, determines refractive error, and detects possible eye diseases in their early stages.

What does the examination include?

Determination of visual acuity and refractive error for distance and near vision

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Examination of the anterior segment of the eye using a biomicroscope (eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, anterior chamber, pupil, and lens)

Pupil dilation and examination of the fundus, including the vitreous, optic nerve, retina, and blood vessels

If the eye is healthy and only refractive error is determined, appropriate vision correction will be recommended (glasses for distance, near vision, or progressive lenses).

If an eye disease is detected during the examination, such as inflammation, cataract, dry eye syndrome, eyelid disease, macular disease, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma, the physician will recommend appropriate therapy, additional diagnostic tests, or examination by a subspecialist.

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 60 minutes on average, if no additional tests are required.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation, if available
  • existing glasses

If you wear contact lenses, they must be removed before the examination:

  • soft contact lenses at least 24 hours before the examination
  • hard and semi-rigid contact lenses for as many days as you have worn them in years, and bring them in their case

Glasses may be worn without restriction.

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred for several hours after the examination. For this reason, we recommend that you do not drive a motor vehicle after the examination.

03

Contact lens examination

A contact lens examination is designed to select the most suitable contact lenses according to your refractive error, eye structure, and daily needs. The examination is performed by ophthalmologists specialized in prescribing contact lenses.

What does the examination include?

In addition to a general ophthalmological examination, the following are determined during the examination:

Corneal curvature

Tear film quality

Selection and trial of trial contact lenses to find the optimal solution for each patient

At our clinic, we prescribe soft, semi-rigid, and hard contact lenses, as well as special contact lenses for keratoconus.

Duration of the examination

The duration of the examination depends on the type of contact lenses and the individual needs of the patient, and takes approximately 60 minutes on average.

Preparation for the examination

When scheduling, it is necessary to emphasize that you are coming for a contact lens examination. It is also important to mention whether you already wear contact lenses and what type you use (soft, semi-rigid, or hard).

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • the contact lenses you currently wear
  • existing glasses
  • previous medical documentation, if available

To ensure the most accurate measurements, it is necessary to temporarily stop wearing contact lenses:

  • soft contact lenses at least 24 hours before the examination
  • semi-rigid and hard contact lenses for as many days as you have worn them in years

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be slightly blurred for several hours after the examination, so driving is not recommended during this time.

04

Multifocal lens implantation examination

An examination for multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation represents a detailed diagnostic evaluation of the eye with the aim of selecting the optimal intraocular lens and assessing the patient’s visual potential.

During the examination, the specialist assesses the health status of the eye, visual needs, and patient expectations in order to select the most appropriate intraocular lens. There are several types of lenses, and the final choice depends on the eye findings and individual needs.

What does the examination include?

The examination includes:

Visual acuity determination

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Biomicroscopic examination of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye

Pupil dilation and detailed examination of the fundus

Additional diagnostic tests include:

  • IOL Master (calculation of intraocular lens power)
  • corneal topography
  • OCT of the macula
  • ocular ultrasound
  • measurement of corneal endothelial cell count
  • biomicroscopic examination of the fundus

Krešimir Gabrić, MD

Krešimir Gabrić, MD

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the required tests.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation, if available
  • existing glasses

If you wear contact lenses:

  • soft lenses at least 3 days before the examination
  • hard or semi-rigid lenses at least 14 days before the examination

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

05

Examination for cataract surgery

During the cataract surgery examination, the condition of the eye, the degree of lens opacity, and detailed diagnostics are assessed for the purpose of planning the surgery and selecting the intraocular lens.

What does the examination include?

The examination includes:

Visual acuity determination

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Biomicroscopic examination of the eye

Pupil dilation and detailed examination of the fundus (lens, optic nerve, macula, and retina)

Diagnostic tests

Preoperative evaluation includes:

IOL Master – precise calculation of intraocular lens power.

Ultrasound A-scan – for dense cataracts, calculates lens power.

Corneal topography – analysis of astigmatism and corneal shape.

OCT of the macula and optic nerve – assessment of macular and optic nerve status.

Ocular ultrasound – for opacities when the fundus cannot be clearly examined.

Measurement of corneal endothelial cells – assessment of corneal health before surgery.

Prof. Maja Bohač, MD, PhD

Ante Barišić, MD, PhD

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the required tests.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation, if available
  • existing glasses

If you wear contact lenses:

  • soft lenses at least 3 days before the examination
  • hard or semi-rigid lenses at least 14 days before the examination

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

Prof. Maja Bohač, MD, PhD

Ante Barišić, MD, PhD

06

Retinal examination

A retinal examination is a detailed examination of the posterior segment of the eye (vitreous, retina, and optic nerve) that diagnoses fundus diseases and assesses vision status.

What does the examination include?

The examination begins with:

Determination of visual acuity in both eyes

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Biomicroscopic examination of the anterior segment of the eye

Pupil dilation with drops

Detailed examination of the fundus (retina and vitreous)

The examination is performed using a biomicroscope, during which the physician uses a lens that is brought close to the eye or gently placed on the anesthetized surface of the eye. This allows detailed examination of the vitreous and retina.

Additional diagnostic tests

If necessary, the examination is supplemented with:

  • OCT (optical coherence tomography)
  • fluorescein angiography
  • ocular ultrasound

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the required tests.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation, if available
  • existing glasses or contact lens case (if you wear them)

Contact lenses do not need to be removed in advance.

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

The examination is painless, and after the examination, brief flashes may occur that resolve spontaneously.

Based on the findings, therapy is determined, which may include drops, medications, laser treatment, intravitreal injections, or surgical intervention. In urgent cases, emergency treatment or surgery on the same day is possible.

Lovro Sočo, MD during patient examination

Patient examination

07

Glaucoma examination

A glaucoma examination is a detailed diagnostic evaluation that assesses intraocular pressure, optic nerve status, and the risk or presence of glaucoma.

What does the examination include?

The examination includes:

General Ophthalmological Examination

Visual Field

Pachymetry (measurement of corneal thickness)

Gonioscopy (examination of the angle of the eye)

OCT (optical coherence tomography of the retina and optic nerve)

Duration of the examination

The examination may take 2 to 3 hours.

Prof. Smiljka Popović Suić, MD, PhD

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation, if available
  • existing glasses

Important information

During part of the examination, anesthetic drops may be applied, so tests such as gonioscopy and intraocular pressure measurement are painless.

Visual field testing requires concentration and may extend the duration of the examination.

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

08

Corneal transplant examination

A corneal transplant examination includes a detailed preoperative ophthalmological evaluation to assess the condition of the eye and plan the surgical procedure.

What does the examination include?

Detailed examination using a biomicroscope

Visual acuity determination

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Corneal topography

Measurement of corneal thickness (pachymetry)

Assessment of anterior chamber depth

Examination of the fundus

Ocular ultrasound

Biometric measurements and intraocular lens calculation, if combined surgery is planned

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes on average, depending on the required tests.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation
  • existing glasses

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

09

Keratoconus examination

A keratoconus examination is a detailed ophthalmological examination that assesses the shape, structure, and stability of the cornea and detects or monitors changes characteristic of keratoconus.

What does the examination include?

Detailed examination using a biomicroscope

Visual acuity determination

Measurement of intraocular pressure

Corneal topography

Measurement of corneal thickness (pachymetry)

Assessment of anterior chamber depth

Examination of the fundus

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes on average, depending on the scope of diagnostics and required imaging.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation
  • existing glasses/lenses

If you wear contact lenses, they must be removed before the examination:

  • soft contact lenses at least 72 hours before the examination
  • hard or semi-rigid contact lenses at least 10 days before the examination

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

Emma Grace Orešković, MD

10

Eyelid surgery examination

An eyelid surgery examination includes a detailed ophthalmological and aesthetic-functional assessment of the eyelid area and surrounding eye structures. The aim of the examination is to assess the function, position, and appearance of the eyelids and to plan aesthetic and/or reconstructive surgery.

What does the examination include?

Determination of visual acuity

Determination of refractive error using an automatic refractometer

Measurement of intraocular pressure (tonometry, IOP)

Examination of the anterior segment of the eye using a biomicroscope

Assessment of tear film (Schirmer test)

Pupil dilation and examination of the fundus, including the optic nerve, retina, and center of vision

Objective assessment of refractive error

Assessment of eyelid position and function includes:

Measurement of palpebral fissure height and width

Measurement of eyelid distance from the central light reflex (MRD1 and MRD2)

Assessment of levator muscle function

Assessment of eyelid elasticity

Analysis of eyeball position in relation to the eyelids and surrounding bony structures

Assessment of eye motility and ocular muscle function

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 60 minutes on average.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation
  • existing glasses

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

11

Strabismus examination

A strabismus examination includes a detailed ophthalmological and orthoptic evaluation with the aim of assessing the position, motility, and coordination of both eyes, as well as determining the type and magnitude of strabismus. The examination is particularly recommended for patients with strabismus and in childhood.

What does the examination include?

Determination of visual acuity

Determination of refractive error using an automatic refractometer

Measurement of intraocular pressure (tonometry, IOP)

Examination of the anterior segment of the eye using a biomicroscope

Assessment of tear film (Schirmer test)

Pupil dilation and examination of the fundus, including the optic nerve, retina, and center of vision

Objective assessment of refractive error

Assessment of strabismus includes:

Determination of the type and magnitude of strabismus

Measurement of the angle of deviation in prism diopters (PD), at near and distance and in all directions of gaze

Assessment of eye motility for each eye separately (ductions)

Assessment of coordinated eye movements (versions and vergences)

Assessment of binocular vision and stereovision (Bagolini, Titmus, Lang tests)

Testing for diplopia (if necessary)

Measurement of accommodation (near adaptation)

Orthoptic status

In case of planned strabismus surgery, a simulation of postoperative eye position using special prisms/lenses may also be performed if necessary.

Duration of the examination

The examination takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes on average, depending on the scope of orthoptic testing.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation
  • existing glasses

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, vision may be temporarily blurred after the examination. Driving a motor vehicle is not recommended for several hours after the examination.

12

Pediatric eye examination

A pediatric ophthalmological examination is a detailed examination of vision and eye structures adapted to the child’s age.

What does the examination include?

Determination of visual acuity at near and distance

Tests for strabismus and stereovision

Pupil dilation and determination of objective refractive error

Examination of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye

Methods for determining visual acuity:

For infants: special cards and monitoring of response to patterns

Preschool age: Lea symbols (pictures)

School age: standard letter charts

The orthoptic part of the examination includes:

  • assessment of eye position and motility
  • determination of strabismus and its magnitude
  • assessment of binocular vision (cooperation of both eyes), diagnosis of amblyopia, assessment of nystagmus (additional measurements if necessary)
  • stereovision tests (Titmus, Lang)

Assessment of refractive error includes:

  • pupil dilation in several stages (duration approximately 60 minutes)
  • determination of objective refractive error after pupil dilation (skiascopy)
  • measurement with a pediatric autorefractometer (Plusoptix) if necessary

Duration of the examination

The examination takes up to 120 minutes on average, depending on the child’s cooperation and required tests.

Preparation for the examination

It is recommended to bring to the examination:

  • previous medical documentation
  • existing glasses (if the child wears them)

If the child wears contact lenses, they must be removed before the examination:

  • soft contact lenses at least 24 hours before the examination
  • lenses must be brought in their case to the examination

Glasses may be worn without any restrictions.

Important information

Due to pupil dilation, the child will have blurred vision after the examination, which may last from several hours to the entire day. It is recommended that the child be prepared in advance for the application of pupil dilation drops.

13

Myopia (nearsightedness) examination

Myopia or nearsightedness is a refractive error of the eye in which the child sees distant objects blurred, while near objects are clear. The most common cause is an elongated eyeball, which causes light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in nearsightedness in children worldwide. It is believed that this is due to increased time spent in front of screens, prolonged near work, and less time spent outdoors in daylight.

Can the development of nearsightedness be prevented?

Although it is not always possible to prevent the onset of myopia, certain habits can reduce the risk of its development and slow its progression:

Spend at least 2 hours daily outdoors in daylight

Ensure good lighting during reading and writing

Take regular breaks during studying and near work

Exposure to daylight stimulates dopamine secretion, which has been proven to slow eye growth in length and reduce the risk of developing nearsightedness.

Why is it important to slow the progression of myopia?

In children with myopia, the eyeball gradually elongates, which is why refractive error most often increases during childhood and adolescence.

Greater nearsightedness is associated with an increased risk of developing eye diseases in adulthood, including:

Retinal tears and detachment

Glaucoma

Earlier development of cataract

Macular changes

The goal of treatment is not only to ensure good vision today, but to preserve eye health in the long term.

Myopia control

Today, there are effective methods by which we can slow the progression of nearsightedness.

Myopia control glasses

Myopia control glasses differ from conventional glasses. In myopia control glasses, the center of the lens has a focus area with the appropriate refractive error that enables clear vision, while the peripheral part has a lower refractive error and creates myopic defocus, which sends a signal to the eye to slow growth in length, thereby slowing the progression of myopia.

Atropine drops

If, despite the measures taken, refractive error and axial eye length continue to increase, it is possible to introduce therapy with atropine drops in a highly diluted concentration.

The drops are most often applied once daily before bedtime, and the duration of therapy is individually adapted to each child. Therapy may last several years, depending on the rate of myopia progression.

Myopia examination and monitoring

Examination for assessment and monitoring of nearsightedness includes:

  • determination of visual acuity
  • orthoptic examination
  • determination of refractive error after pupil dilation
  • examination of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye
  • measurement of axial eye length
  • measurement of corneal curvature

All measurements are quick, painless, and adapted to children.

After diagnosis, regular check-ups every 6 months are recommended. At check-ups, we monitor changes in refractive error, eye growth, and the effectiveness of prescribed therapy in order to adjust treatment in a timely manner.

14

Dry eye examination

Disease description

Dry eye syndrome is a common disorder of the ocular surface caused by reduced tear production or impaired tear film quality. The tear film plays a key role in maintaining corneal health, vision stability, and protecting the eye from infections.

In dry eye, tear film instability and increased tear evaporation occur, which can lead to ocular surface damage and chronic inflammation.

The most common symptoms include:

Sensation of dryness and stinging in the eyes

A gritty or foreign body sensation in the eye

Redness of the eyes

Blurred or fluctuating vision

Increased reflex tearing

Sensitivity to light

Eye fatigue, especially when working on a computer or reading

Symptoms are often more pronounced in air-conditioned or heated rooms, during prolonged screen work, and when wearing contact lenses.

Purpose of the examination

The purpose of the examination is to:

Diagnose dry eye syndrome

Classify the type of dry eye

Objectively document findings

Assess the degree of ocular surface damage

Prescribe targeted and individualized therapy

Based on the findings, a treatment and disease monitoring plan is developed.

A follow-up examination is usually planned for 6-8 weeks to assess the effect of therapy and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

Classification of dry eye

The examination enables differentiation of the main types of dry eye:

Aqueous-deficient dry eye

Caused by reduced lacrimal gland function.

Evaporative dry eye

Most commonly associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which produces the lipid layer of the tear film.

Mixed type dry eye

A combination of both mechanisms, which is the most common form in clinical practice.

Course of the examination

The examination consists of several phases:

  1. completion of the OSDI-6 questionnaire
  2. diagnostic imaging of the ocular surface
  3. clinical examination by the physician
  4. final consultation and treatment plan

The OSDI-6 questionnaire is used to assess:

  • symptom intensity
  • impact of symptoms on daily activities
  • subjective severity of the disease

Instructions before the examination

Bring a list of medications you take regularly

Bring previous ophthalmological and other specialist findings

Do not use eye drops 2-4 hours before the examination (unless the physician has advised otherwise)

Come without contact lenses (remove soft contact lenses at least 24 hours before the examination, and hard and semi-rigid contact lenses for as many days as you have worn them in years)

It is recommended to come accompanied, as after pupil dilation there may be temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity.

Patient Admission

Upon admission, the patient receives the OSDI-6 questionnaire. The patient completes it before the examination begins and submits it to the doctor.

Diagnostic Imaging

Diagnostics are performed according to a standardized dry eye examination protocol.

The examination includes:

Non-invasive TBUT (NIBUT)

Assessment of tear film stability without contact with the eye surface.

Anterior Segment OCT (MS-39)

Corneal epithelial relief map, analysis of epithelial quality, corneal cross-section in two planes, and assessment of tear meniscus height.

Meibography (OFA)

Analysis of meibomian gland structure and assessment of the degree of their atrophy or dysfunction.

If necessary, slit-lamp photodocumentation is also performed to monitor changes on the eye surface.

Clinical Examination

The clinical examination includes:

Visual acuity determination

Tonometry (ICARE)

Eyelid and eyelid margin examination

Tear film quality assessment

Additional diagnostic tests are also performed:

Fluorescein staining of the eye surface

Assessment of corneal and conjunctival epithelial damage. Findings can be classified according to standard scales (Oxford grading)

TBUT test

Assessment of tear film stability. Values shorter than approximately 10 seconds may indicate an unstable tear film.

Schirmer test

Assessment of the amount of tears produced, used to differentiate reduced tear production from evaporative dry eye.

Meibomian gland assessment

Quality of secretion, gland patency, signs of dysfunction (MGD).

This is followed by:

  • instillation of drops
  • pupil dilation
  • fundus examination (fundoscopy)

This assesses the overall condition of the eye and rules out other eye diseases.

Interpretation of findings

Based on the results obtained, the doctor assesses:

  • type of dry eye
  • tear film stability
  • meibomian gland function
  • degree of eye surface damage
  • disease severity (mild, moderate, or severe form)

All findings are documented in the medical record, along with photodocumentation and measurement results.

Final consultation

At the end of the examination, the doctor:

  • explains the findings to the patient
  • classifies the type of dry eye
  • determines an individualized treatment plan
  • provides advice on: eyelid hygiene, proper use of artificial tears, computer work habits, eye surface protection

The patient receives a written report with recommended therapy.

A follow-up examination is usually planned for 6 to 8 weeks later, to assess the response to therapy and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

15

Second opinion from an ophthalmologist – ophthalmological examination

An ophthalmological examination for a second opinion is intended for patients who want an additional assessment of their findings, diagnosis, or recommended treatment.

During the examination, the ophthalmologist thoroughly analyzes existing medical documentation, previous findings, and symptoms, and performs additional ophthalmological diagnostics as needed.

The goal is to confirm the existing diagnosis, clarify any ambiguities, and assess whether other treatment options exist.

What does the examination include?

Discussion of complaints and the course of the disease to date

Review of existing medical documentation and findings

Complete general ophthalmological examination

Assessment of the existing diagnosis and recommended treatment

Additional diagnostic tests or subspecialist evaluation as needed

Explanation of findings and possible options

Recommendation for further action

When is a second opinion useful?

A second opinion can provide additional reassurance and help you make an informed decision about your health.

Doctors strive to provide each patient with a clear and understandable explanation of their condition and to answer all questions related to the diagnosis and treatment options.

16

Corneal confocal microscopy

Corneal confocal microscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic method that provides a detailed view of the cornea at a cellular level. It is used for:

Assessment of corneal nerve fibers and their changes

Diagnosis and monitoring of corneal neuropathy and neuropathic ocular pain

Assessment of dry eye syndrome and ocular surface diseases

Detection and monitoring of infectious keratitis, especially when Acanthamoeba or fungal infections are suspected

Assessment of corneal dystrophies and degenerations

Analysis of endothelium, epithelium, stroma, and inflammatory cells

Monitoring changes after refractive and other corneal surgeries and transplantation

Assessment of changes associated with contact lenses

Research and monitoring of corneal nerve changes in diabetes, glaucoma, and certain neurological and systemic diseases

The examination is fast, minimally invasive, and provides insight into microscopic changes that cannot be seen with a standard ophthalmological examination.

17

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a comprehensive eye examination include?

A comprehensive eye examination includes visual acuity testing, intraocular pressure measurement, anterior segment examination with a biomicroscope, and posterior segment examination after pupil dilation. If necessary, glasses are prescribed, or the patient is referred to a subspecialist. The examination lasts approximately one hour, and vision may be slightly blurred for several hours, so driving is not recommended.

What you need to know before scheduling a contact lens examination?

When scheduling, it is important to specify that you require a contact lens examination. It is advisable to bring any previous records and your current glasses or lenses. Soft contact lenses should be removed at least 24 hours before the examination, while rigid gas permeable (RGP) or semi-rigid lenses should be discontinued for as many days as the number of years you have worn them. Glasses can be used without restriction.

Do I need to have my pupils dilated?

An ophthalmological examination without pupil dilation is not recommended. Pupils need to be dilated in order to examine the back of the eye (fundus) and to determine the condition of the eyes, check visual acuity, and measure refractive error.

What is ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine that deals with the study of the structure and function of the eye, its pathology, and therapy.

What is myopia?

Myopia (nearsightedness) is a common refractive error of the eye where nearby objects are seen clearly, while distant objects appear blurry. It primarily occurs when the eyeball is too long, causing the image to form in front of the retina instead of directly on it. It is corrected with concave lenses that diverge light rays (known as ‘minus lenses’).

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, resulting in blurred vision at all distances.

How do people with astigmatism see?

People with astigmatism see slightly differently because the eye’s cornea is not perfectly round, but rather more “oval”. As a result, light does not focus properly on the retina, which causes blurry vision and difficulty focusing images.

What is cylinder?

Cylinder is a type of refractive error that corrects astigmatism.

How do people with refractive errors see?

It depends on the type of refractive error they have. The most common refractive errors are myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. With myopia (negative refractive error), people see near objects clearly, but as the object of observation moves further away, it becomes blurrier. With hyperopia (positive refractive error), objects appear blurry up close and become sharper as they move further away. However, this does not necessarily mean that a hyperopic person will always see well at a distance. Typically, for hyperopic individuals, distance vision becomes blurrier the more tired or older they are. Astigmatism usually causes problems with both distance and near vision. These individuals may see things as slightly elongated or shortened, depending on the axis of their astigmatism.

Which prescription is for distance?

The most common prescription for distance is minus, but people with astigmatism may also see poorly at a distance, as well as farsighted individuals in middle and later life.

What prescription is for near vision?

A near vision prescription is most commonly plus, but astigmatism can also result in a near vision prescription.

What is the reading prescription and is it plus or minus?

There is no strictly defined prescription for distance and near vision, as it depends on the condition of the eye and the person’s age. The reading prescription (near vision) is most often a plus prescription used to correct presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). It is often added to the distance prescription, so the total correction may be a combination of plus and minus, depending on whether the person has myopia or hyperopia. In younger individuals, the visual system can often compensate for a smaller plus prescription, while people with a minus prescription usually see well at near distances without additional correction. Therefore, the answer is not straightforward and depends on the individual combination of prescription and any astigmatism present.

Can refractive error be corrected?

Refractive error represents an optical imperfection of the eye, i.e., the eye’s inability to focus an image sharply. Yes, refractive error can be corrected, but it depends on the cause and your age. In the case of nearsightedness (minus) or farsightedness (plus), the refractive error is related to the shape of the eye. Therefore, in adults, it rarely decreases permanently on its own. However, it can be treated by wearing glasses, contact lenses, laser surgery, or lens implantation.

Can nearsightedness be corrected?

Yes, nearsightedness can be corrected. It can be corrected by wearing glasses, contact lenses, laser surgery, or lens implantation.

Can farsightedness be corrected?

Yes, farsightedness can be corrected. It can be corrected by wearing glasses, contact lenses, laser surgery, or lens implantation.

Can astigmatism be corrected?

Yes, astigmatism can be successfully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, laser vision correction, or lens implantation.

What is visual acuity?

Visual acuity refers to how clearly and precisely details are recognized at a certain distance. It is most commonly measured using charts with letters or symbols.

Why do pupils dilate?

Pupil dilation is part of a comprehensive ophthalmological examination. Pupils are dilated so the ophthalmologist can examine the posterior segment of the eye (optic nerve, macula, and retina) and to relax the eye muscle for a more accurate measurement of refractive error.

How long does pupil dilation last?

The effect of pupil-dilating drops typically lasts about 1 to 4 hours, sometimes longer depending on the individual patient. Following the examination, we advise patients not to drive until their vision fully clears.

How long does adjustment to glasses take?

Adjustment usually takes a few days, and with more complex prescriptions or progressive lenses it can take up to two weeks.

Why do eyes glisten?

Eyes glisten due to a thin layer of tears that covers the surface of the eye (cornea), creating a shiny, moist surface that reflects light. Increased glistening is often caused by increased tear production due to emotions, irritation, or dryness, when the eye produces more tears to protect itself.

Why are eyes red?

Red eyes most commonly result from the dilation of small blood vessels on the surface of the eye due to irritation, allergies, infections (conjunctivitis), dryness, fatigue, or contact lens wear. Although usually not dangerous, red eyes can be a symptom of more serious conditions such as corneal abrasions or injuries.

Why do eyes water?

Eyes water most commonly due to excessive tear production in response to irritation or due to blocked tear ducts. The most common causes are external factors (wind, cold, smoke), allergies, infections (conjunctivitis), dry eye which paradoxically causes tearing, and injuries or the presence of a foreign body in the eye.

Do eyes grow throughout life?

Yes, eyes do grow, but not throughout the entire lifespan. By the early twenties, the eye generally reaches its full size, after which it no longer changes significantly.

Is the prescription the same for eyeglasses and contact lenses?

Yes and no. Eyeglasses sit a few millimeters in front of the eye, while a contact lens rests directly on the cornea. This difference in distance affects the required lens power. This effect becomes significant at prescriptions above +/-4, and the lens power must then be adjusted accordingly.

How to rinse your eye?

The eye must be rinsed properly. Before doing so, wash your hands and avoid rubbing the eye. Tilt your head so that the affected eye is facing downward or to the side. Use sterile saline solution, clean lukewarm water, or artificial tears to rinse the eye.

How to insert a contact lens?

Wash your hands thoroughly. Check the lens and place it on your index finger (so it resembles a small bowl), with the edges facing upward. If the edges are flared outward, the lens is inside out. Keep your eye open. With one hand, lift the upper eyelid, and with the other hand (with the finger holding the lens) pull down the lower eyelid. Place the lens on the eye (usually on the center or lower part of the eye). Then slowly close your eye and blink several times so the lens settles properly.

How to remove a contact lens from your eye?

It is important to wash your hands, then pull down your lower eyelid and move the lens toward the lower part of your eye, gently grasp it between your thumb and index finger, and remove it. If the lens has stuck, apply artificial tears, blink, and try again.

How to remove a foreign body (splinter, metal shard, speck, etc.) from the eye?

If a splinter or metal shard is embedded in the cornea, you should seek the help of an ophthalmologist who will remove the foreign body. The doctor instills local anesthetic drops to prevent pain and blinking, and uses a magnet (if it is metallic) or precise micro-forceps under a microscope to remove the foreign body.

How long does eye inflammation last?

The duration of inflammation depends on its cause. Milder inflammations typically resolve within a few days, while more severe cases may last longer and require therapy.

What is a consultative examination?

A consultative examination is a specialist or subspecialist consultation that evaluates an already diagnosed condition or determines the further course of treatment based on prior assessment. It is conducted by a hospital or outpatient specialist upon the recommendation of the primary physician, most often with the aim of introducing new therapies or recommending surgical procedures.