FAQs - South Park Optical

Why should I have my eye dilated?
Dilation is when eye drops are put in to make the pupil larger. By dilating the eyes your doctor can better evaluate the internal structures of your eyes and identify both ocular problems as well as systemic health problems. Common problems that can be discovered by having your eyes dilated include cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, and retinal conditions. Ask your doctor more about when they recommend you have your eyes dilated.
I’m diabetic, how often do I need to have my eyes examined?
It is highly recommended that patient’s with diabetes have their eyes examined once a year. Diabetes, one of the leading causes of blindness in the US, can cause changes in the back of the eye leading to bleeding or fluid accumulation in the retina. Diabetic eye exams involve having your eyes dilated to examine the retina for these changes. Results are sent the doctor that manages your diabetic treatment because it may effect the type and amount of medication they prescribe you.
My family has a history of eye problems, am I at risk?

Many eye conditions can have genetic components. Having a family member with these conditions (such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetes) can be a risk factor for you to have problems as well. Timely routine eye exams can help monitor your eyes for changes.

Am I a good candidate for contact lenses?
Many glasses prescriptions can be successfully achieved with contact lenses. Being a good contact lens candidate depends on your glasses prescription as well as the overall health of your eyes. There are many different types of contact lenses that can help meet your visual needs, talk to your eye doctor during your exam which ones may be best for you and your eye
I wear reading glasses or bifocals, are there contact lenses that would work for me?
There are many contact lens systems called multifocals that are designed to help people with reading glasses see well both at a distance and while reading. While they are not right everyone, the right candidates can do very well in these multifocal lenses. Ask your doctor for more information about if they would be right for you.