
Eye Exam Success Story: How an Annual Exam Caught a Serious Condition
An eye exam success story from The Villages: how a yearly exam caught a serious eye condition early, plus 5 simple tips to protect your own vision.
Eye exam prep is simple. Learn what to bring, what tests to expect, and what to do after your visit to Hindsight Eye Care. Book your exam now.
By HindSight Eye CareEye Exams

Medical review pending Updated
Eye exam prep takes a little planning, and it helps you get more from your visit. This guide covers what to expect, what to bring and what to do afterward, so you leave with the answers you came for.
Your optometrist runs a series of tests to check how well your eyes work and how healthy they are. Knowing the tests ahead of time helps you feel calm in the chair. Our complete eye exam may include:
Visual acuity test: This measures how clearly you see at different distances.
Refraction: The optometrist finds your exact prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
Slit lamp exam: A close look at the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens.
Tonometry: This measures the pressure inside your eye, which can help find glaucoma.
Dilated eye exam: Drops widen your pupils so the doctor can see the retina at the back of your eye. See dilated eye exams.
Gather a few details first:
Your medical history, including past or current eye conditions or injuries
A list of the medicines you take
Contact details for any past eye care providers
These help the optometrist give you accurate, personal care.
Pick a time that lets you arrive without rushing. Arrange a ride, because dilating drops can make driving hard afterward.
Write down any questions you want to ask, too.
Tell your optometrist about any changes in your vision since your last visit, any discomfort, and how you spend your days. The more we know, the better we can tailor your exam.
During the tests, you may need to keep your eyes still, say what you see and avoid sudden movements. Following those instructions keeps your results accurate.
When the exam ends, we go over your results with you, including any diagnosis, prescription or suggested treatment. Ask about anything that is unclear, and ask for a copy of your results for your records.
Depending on what we find, you may need follow-up care, such as:
A follow-up visit to monitor a condition
New eyeglasses or contact lenses
More testing or treatment
Keep each follow-up appointment so small problems stay small.
Gather your information, plan ahead, and speak openly with your optometrist.
Follow instructions carefully, and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Afterward, review your results and follow up as needed.
How often should I get an eye exam? Most eye care professionals recommend a complete exam every one to two years.
You may need one more often if you have vision problems or other risk factors. See our guide to when you should have an eye exam.
What should I bring? Bring your medical information, a list of your medicines, and your questions. Also bring your current glasses or contacts.
How long does the exam take? The length varies, but it often takes 30 to 60 minutes.
What if I need glasses or contacts? If you need vision correction, the optometrist gives you a prescription and helps you find the right eyewear.
How do I know if I need an eye doctor? See an eye care professional if you notice blurred or double vision, eye strain, headaches, or trouble seeing at night.
Ready to schedule? Book your eye exams with Hindsight Eye Care today.
Written and published by HindSight Eye Care on February 19, 2025. This article is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your eye doctor about your own care.
Want to know more? These independent eye health groups explain the topics on this page, starting with National Eye Institute. Each link opens in a new tab.

Eye Exam Success Story: How an Annual Exam Caught a Serious Condition
An eye exam success story from The Villages: how a yearly exam caught a serious eye condition early, plus 5 simple tips to protect your own vision.

Meet Our Eye Care Team: Compassionate Eye Doctors Near You
Eye care team in The Villages: meet Dr. James Russell, OD and our licensed opticians at Hindsight Eye Care. Learn who will care for you, then book an exam.

Choosing an Eye Doctor in The Villages, FL: What to Look For
Choosing an eye doctor in The Villages, FL? Use these 7 tips on credentials, services, technology, reviews, insurance and location, then book your exam.
Make time for your eyes. We’ll make you feel right at home.
Request an eye examOr call (352) 399-5412
Accessibility