Q: What does the Optomap® tell the doctor?

A: The Optomap® allows the doctor to assess your ocular and overall systemic health.

Q: Why is it important for the doctor to look at the retina?

A: The sensitive tissue that makes up the retina is susceptible to a variety of diseases and it is essential to catch any problems early in their progression to avoid vision loss.

Q: If I don't have an Optomap® exam, will I still get a good exam?

A: Of course your doctor will still give a good exam. However, you should know that you will be depriving your doctor of a tool that has proven to help doctors detect problems earlier and you will not have the opportunity to see and learn about your own ocular health.

Q: What age groups are candidates?

A: All age groups are candidates, including children. 

Q: Will it tell me if I have cataracts?

A: No, the Optomap® is looking at the back of your eye and cataracts are a problem that occur in the front of your eye. The Optomap® will tell you if you have conditions such as Diabetic Retinopathy, Hypertensive Retinopathy, Retinal Holes, Tears and Detachments, Macular Degeneration, Malignant Melanomas and many other retinal disorders.

Q: I don't have any complaints; I see well, why should I get this?

A: Most eye disorders do not cause pain or other symptoms. Also, when detected early enough, many retinal problems can be treated to avoid vision loss. However, once a retinal problem has caused a loss in vision, it is almost never reversible. Early detection is vital to preserving good eye health.

Q. Can taking an Optomap® cause any damage?

A. No, the Optomap® exam is a safe procedure.

Q. What is Fundus Autoflourescence?

A. Autofluorescence highlights areas of the retina that may be undergoing a disease process by reflecting the lipofuscin content in the retina. Lipofuscin is a retinal byproduct that accumulates with disease such as macular degeneration, retinal dystrophies and ocular tumors.

The inclusion of Optomap® as part of a comprehensive eye exam provides:

• A scan to show a healthy eye or detect disease.

• A 200° view of the retina, giving your doctor a more comprehensive view than they can get by any other means.

• The opportunity for you to view and discuss the Optomap image of your eye with your doctor at the time of your exam.

• A permanent record for your file, which allows your doctor to view your images each year to look for changes.

For further information regarding the Optomap®, please see their website www.optos.com