What to Expect During a Cataract Examination?

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Lotte Tower Branch

Cataract Exams: Less Stressful When Family is by Your Side

"The exam ends at the clinic, but peace of mind is complete with family."

Hello, this is BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Lotte Tower Branch.

A few days ago, while watching TV, I saw a scene where an actor was undergoing an eye exam. I could truly relate to their surprise at the sudden, bright light flashing in their eyes. In reality, such reactions are very common in our examination rooms.

Cataract exams, in particular, involve strong lights, making them feel more daunting if you are alone. However, having a family member by your side significantly reduces that tension. In today's journal, I would like to share the story of a patient who recently underwent a cataract exam accompanied by her daughter.

A Patient's Journey: The Power of Family Support

Nervousness Before Entering the Exam Room

That afternoon, the patient and her daughter finished registration and opened the door to the examination room. She seemed calm at the entrance, but the atmosphere changed the moment she sat in the chair. Her hands were tightly clasped on her lap, and her gaze was fixed on the floor rather than the machine.

As soon as the bright light swept across her eyes, her eyelids clamped shut. She tried hard to open them again, but her eyelids fluttered and quickly closed. "I don't think... I can keep my eyes open for long." Her voice clearly carried her tension and fear.

A Daughter's Warm Encouragement

"It's okay, Mom. Just take your time."

The daughter gently held the back of her mother's cold hands. The warmth seemed to slowly melt away the tension. With that brief reassurance, the patient's tense eyes relaxed a little, and she muttered to herself, "Right, they said it's okay to close them for a moment..."

I immediately agreed, "Yes, absolutely. You can close them briefly and open them again. Please take your time." With the daughter's touch and my guidance, the air in the room shifted. The space, which had felt heavy just a moment ago, suddenly felt lighter and warmer.

Comfort Replaces Tension

Throughout the examination, the daughter stood by the chair, whispering repeatedly, "You're doing great," and "Just a little more." Hearing that voice, the fluttering eyelids gradually steadied. After the exam ended, the patient took a deep breath and said,

"If I had come alone, it would have been really hard... Having you next to me makes it so much better."

What Does a Cataract Examination Involve?

A cataract exam generally proceeds in this order: Basic Exam → Pupil Dilation (Mydriasis) → Comprehensive Exam → Consultation. The total duration is about 1 hour for the basics, and 2 to 3 hours if pupil dilation is included.

1. Visual Acuity and Refraction Test

First, we check your current vision and determine the correct glasses prescription. You will sit in front of an auto-refractor and look at an image on a small screen. The machine automatically calculates changes in your eye's focus, so you just need to look comfortably.

2. Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Test

We check the pressure inside your eye to assess glaucoma risk. A quick, painless puff of air will be directed at your eye. It is over in an instant and only takes 2 to 3 attempts, so there is no need to worry.

3. Slit-Lamp Examination

We shine a bright light into your eye to closely examine the cornea, iris, and lens under magnification. If the light makes you want to close your eyes, it is perfectly fine to blink or close them briefly. Through this process, we can directly determine how much the cataract has progressed.

4. Pupil Dilation (Mydriasis)

Eye drops are administered to enlarge the pupils, allowing us to look deep into the retina and optic nerve. You will need to wait 15 to 20 minutes. It is entirely normal to experience blurry near vision and light sensitivity during this time. Please note that driving is strictly prohibited after dilation, and bringing sunglasses will help reduce glare.

5. Fundus and Comprehensive Examination

We take photographs inside your eye to carefully check for underlying conditions like macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. If surgery is planned, we also take precise measurements to calculate the power of the artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

6. Results Consultation

Finally, we review the overall test results with you. We will determine the progression of the cataract and the optimal timing for surgery. Having a guardian present is highly beneficial to catch any details you might miss.

Pre- and Post-Examination Checklist

Preparation (Day Before & Day Of)

• • Sufficient Sleep: Fatigue can worsen light sensitivity.
• • No Contact Lenses: Remove soft lenses at least 1 day before, and hard lenses 1 week before the exam.
• • Avoid Eye Makeup: Recommended to prevent smudging on the examination equipment.

What to Bring

• • Sunglasses: Essential to prevent glare after pupil dilation.
• • Current Glasses: Please bring them to compare with your current corrected vision.

Exam Duration and Precautions

If pupil dilation is included, your total stay may extend to 2 to 3 hours. Due to the eye drops, your focus will be blurred for 3 to 4 hours, meaning driving is strictly prohibited. Arriving with a guardian ensures a safe trip home and helps you remember the consultation details, providing great peace of mind.