This is one of the most common questions I get regarding an eye exam. The analogy I like to use is if you were going to inspect a home, would you rather look through a single window or walk inside and go through the entire house?
In younger patients with healthy eyes, dilation is not always necessary. However, as we age, dilating the eyes allows us to more thoroughly evaluate the eyes for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachments as well as health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
It is not the most fun on a sunny day, but it can save your vision and we always give you cool sunglasses for the drive home!
If you have questions or comments, please send an email to drlillie@familyvisionoptical.com.