FAQs

Your vision is so much a part of you, it’s easy to take it for granted. Many times, when changes occur in your eyesight, they are so slight you don’t notice them until they have progressed into something more serious. This is why our optometrist at Lauer Eye Care recommends that you come in for an eye exam at least once a year. Many of our patients are curious about the procedures in the different types of eye exams we offer. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked:

Are You Accepting New Patients?

Yes! Lauer Eye Care continues to grow each year and we gladly accept new patients.

How Long is an Eye Exam?

Allow yourself 30 to 45 minutes for your tests and 1 hour overall. This may seem like quite a bit of time out of your day, but it is essential to ensure accurate test results for overall eye health.

How Often Should I Have a Basic Eye Exam?

We recommend annual eye exams for contact wearers and younger patients with a glasses prescription that might change over time. For patients over 40, we also recommend annual eye exams for eye health reasons (cataracts, glaucoma, etc.). Patients younger than 40 with no prescription and no symptoms can go 2 years between eye exams, but often recommend annual exams to ensure healthy eyes.

What Does a Basic Eye Exam Consist Of?

Once you check-in, a team member will take you back for a few quick and easy preliminary tests. We will discuss your goals for the visit, and any questions concerning you and your family’s eye health. Then, we will take images of the retina inside the eye, check your eye pressure and have you read the eye chart. Dr. Lauer will then measure your prescription and test you for eye health problems (cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration, etc.) We will review all results with you, along with advice for your specific visual needs. Our friendly receptionist will then check you out with insurance billing or questions.

Do I Have to Get My Eyes Dilated?

Generally, we dilate pupils by default unless you request otherwise. However, before making this decision, keep the following in mind:

  • Pupil dilation is a more thorough way to examine the retina inside the eye.
  • The newer drops we use are “friendlier” and milder, with less blurry vision afterwards.
  • The drops last several hours. During that time, your pupils will be larger than normal, and you will be extra sensitive to light. There is minimal effect on close vision.
  • Most people can drive afterward, but feel free to bring a driver if you prefer.
  • Since you will be more sensitive to light, we suggest bringing your favorite pair of sunglasses for the ride home.

What Insurance Plans Do You Accept?

Contact us to learn more about which insurance plans we cover.

Do You Allow Walk-In Exams?

Yes, we do accept walk-ins! However, we recommend scheduling an appointment with us in advance since time slots are limited.