Eye Exam

Regular eye exams are a cornerstone of maintaining healthy vision and overall eye health. At Visual Health Doctors of Optometry, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you need a routine checkup, an updated prescription, or a thorough evaluation for potential eye conditions, our experienced team uses advanced technology to ensure you receive the highest standard of care.

What Is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

A comprehensive eye exam is more than just a check for glasses or contact lenses; it’s a thorough evaluation of your eye health and vision. This in-depth assessment helps detect vision issues, monitor changes over time, and identify early signs of eye diseases or systemic conditions that may impact your eyes, such as diabetes or hypertension. Unlike vision screenings, which are typically quick tests that measure how well you see at a distance, a comprehensive eye exam provides a complete picture of your eye health, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

What to Expect During a Comprehensive Eye Exam

When you schedule an eye exam with Visual Health Doctors of Optometry, we make the process comfortable and informative. Here's what a typical visit includes:

Medical and Vision History Review

We’ll start by asking about your general health, family history of eye diseases, and any vision changes or concerns you’ve noticed.

Visual Acuity Testing

We’ll measure how clearly you can see at various distances.

Refraction Test

To determine your exact lens prescription, we’ll conduct a refraction test, where you compare different lens options to see which provides the clearest vision.

Eye Muscle Function Test

This test ensures your eyes work together properly to provide a single, clear image.

Pupil Response and Peripheral Vision Test

We check how your pupils respond to light and assess your peripheral vision to detect any irregularities.

Eye Pressure Measurement (Tonometry)

Using a puff of air or a specialized device, we measure intraocular pressure to screen for glaucoma.

Retinal Examination

With advanced imaging technology, we’ll evaluate the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels at the back of your eye to check for issues like macular degeneration, retinal detachment, or signs of systemic diseases.

Slit Lamp Examination

This test provides a magnified view of the structures at the front of your eyes, such as the cornea, iris, and lens, helping detect cataracts, corneal damage, and other abnormalities.

Eye Conditions That Can Be Detected

Comprehensive eye exams are crucial for diagnosing a wide range of conditions, often before symptoms appear:

  • Refractive Errors (Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism)

  • Cataracts

  • Glaucoma

  • Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

  • Diabetic Retinopathy

  • Dry Eye Syndrome

  • Keratoconus

Early detection allows us to personalize treatments, protecting your vision and overall health.

How Often Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?

The frequency of eye exams depends on your age, risk factors, and whether you currently wear corrective lenses.

  • Children: Regular exams starting at six months, at 3 years old, before entering school at 5 or 6 years old, and annually thereafter.

  • Adults (18–64): At least once a year, especially if you wear glasses or contacts.

  • High-Risk Individuals: Annual or more frequent exams if you have a family history of eye disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or are over age 65.


Regular exams are key to preventing vision loss and addressing potential issues early.

Experience the Difference of Personalized, Expert Care at Visual Health Doctors of Optometry

At Visual Health Doctors of Optometry, we’re committed to exceptional, personalized care for every patient. Using state-of-the-art technology, our experienced team delivers accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for a wide range of eye conditions.

With nine convenient locations throughout Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Ashburn, Arlington (Ballston and Clarendon), Fairfax and Vienna, Falls Church, Herndon, Burke & Springfield, and Woodbridge, quality eye care is always within reach. We take the time to understand your concerns, explain your results, and tailor treatment plans to your unique needs—all under one roof.

and let us be your trusted partner in eye care!