Visiting the optometrist for the first time can feel a bit intimidating, especially if you’re unsure what’s involved. At Southern Eyecare Associates, we believe that eye care should be simple, stress-free, and personalized to your needs. Whether you’re coming in for your first routine check-up or addressing a specific vision concern, our team in Norfolk is here to make you feel comfortable and confident.
Here’s a helpful guide to walk you through every step of your first eye exam.
Before You Arrive: What to Bring
Preparation can make your visit smoother and more productive. We recommend bringing the following items with you:
- A valid photo ID
- Your current glasses or contact lenses, if you wear them
- A list of any medications you're currently taking
- Your vision insurance card
- Notes on any symptoms or concerns, such as blurry vision, eye strain, or frequent headaches
If something’s been bothering you, jot down when it started and how it feels. This helps our optometrists better understand your situation from the start.
During the Exam: What Happens in the Chair
Your eye exam will include a series of painless, informative tests designed to evaluate your vision and overall eye health. Here’s what you can expect:
- Visual acuity test – You'll read letters from a chart to measure how clearly you see at different distances.
- Refraction test – We’ll determine your exact lens prescription using a device that helps fine-tune your vision correction.
- Eye muscle and movement checks – To ensure your eyes work well together and move properly.
- Pupil response test – We’ll observe how your pupils react to light, which gives clues about your neurological function.
- Slit-lamp exam – This magnified light allows us to inspect the front of your eye in detail.
- Pupil dilation – In some cases, we’ll use eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing a thorough look at the retina and optic nerve.
Each step is designed to give us a complete picture of your eye health, and our team will guide you through each one with care and clarity.
After the Exam: Understanding Your Results
Once your tests are done, your optometrist will sit down with you to explain the results clearly—no confusing medical jargon.
If you need glasses or contact lenses, we’ll talk about your prescription and walk you through the best vision correction options for your needs and lifestyle. If we identify any eye health concerns, we’ll take the time to explain what they mean and what steps to take next. Whether it's follow-up testing, treatment, or a referral, you'll know exactly what's ahead.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
At Southern Eyecare Associates, your first eye exam is more than just a check-up—it’s the beginning of a partnership in caring for your vision. We’re here to answer questions, ease concerns, and ensure you leave feeling informed and supported.
Ready to schedule your first visit? We look forward to welcoming you to our Norfolk office!