Types of Eye Exams

Visual acuity is the ability to see distinct figures and fine detail clearly. Visual acuity tests measure how well a person sees from a specific distance.

Iridology is a holistic practice that claims health problems can be detected by looking at the external structures of the eyes.

Optomap retinal imaging provides a detailed retinal exam without dilation. But it has some limitations.

The Snellen eye chart is used by eye doctors to measure visual acuity. The more rows a person can read on the chart, the better their visual acuity.

A diabetic eye exam is a detailed evaluation of the health of your retina and other parts of the eye that can be affected by diabetes. Learn more.

The dreaded air puff test: it won’t hurt, but you still don’t like it. Learn what it measures and why it’s important if you have a family history of glaucoma.

Pupillary distance (PD) is a measurement that ensures your glasses provide the best vision correction. Learn the types of PD, how to measure it and more.

Check out these frequently asked questions about eye dilation, and find out what this important eye exam can reveal about your eye and overall health.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already changing eye care. Learn about the many ways researchers and doctors are using it to protect your vision.

Ophthalmoscopy is a detailed examination of your retina and other structures in the back of your eye. It’s also called fundoscopy or a fundoscopic exam.

Refractive errors cause blurry vision by affecting how your eyes focus light. Learn about the four main types and how eye doctors can correct them.

Learn how some studies have found that certain changes in vision and the eyes may help detect early signs of Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Learn how wavefront technology improves eye exams and vision correction. Discover its role in LASIK, custom lenses and advanced diagnostic precision.

A contrast sensitivity test can detect vision problems that conventional eye charts may miss. Learn how it works and when an optometrist may recommend it.

Get details on what a contact lens fitting is and why it's important for clear vision.

What is a digital eye exam? A digital eye exam is similar to the old exam you’re used to, but many of the manual measurements and adjustments are now computed automatically.

The dilated portion of the eye exam lets your eye doctor get a better look at the retinas and optic nerves using magnifying lenses and special light sources.

A routine eye exam screens the general health and quality of your vision, whereas a contact lens exam measures the size and shape of your eyes, among other tests.