Our Philosophy

It’s gratifying to hear, “That the most thorough eye exam I’ve ever had,” and at Oak Bay Optometry we hear that a lot. But our philosophy for an eye exam is simple:

  1. Make sure the patient doesn’t have a serious illness. If you diagnose or suspect one, refer the patient to a specialist.
  2. Make sure the patient doesn’t have a vision-threatening illness. If they do, treat it.
  3. Make the patient see as clearly as possible.

OAK BAY OPTOMETRY

Eye Examinations

  • A full eye and health history with discussion of visual difficulties that you may be experiencing
  • Measurement of visual acuity
  • Full external and internal examination of your eyes
  • Digital retinal photography
  • Measurement of pupil function
  • “Objective” refraction (which does not require any questions) and “subjective” refraction, in which you will be asked to fine tune a lens specification (“one or two?”) for comfortable vision – this will result in a spectacle prescription
  • Assessment of binocular vision (how well your eyes work together)
  • Measurement of focusing ability at different distances to determine whether you may require progressive lenses or separate glasses for different working distances
  • Additional tests, as indicated by your age, symptoms, family history, or from observation of your eyes, that often include measurement of eye pressure, use of drops to dilate the pupils, peripheral vision testing, colour vision testing, and tests for depth perception

We will explain our findings, prescribe treatments, or make recommendations as necessary and, of course, allow you the chance to ask any questions you might have.

A full contact lens examination will include everything above, as well as:

  • During a full contact lens exam, we will check the fit of your current contact lenses, update your prescription, and offer advice regarding contact lenses that may be better for your eye health, or may provide better vision or better comfort.
  • A contact lens fitting or re-fit will include initial measurements to determine proper contact lens size, material and prescription, and will also include follow-up appointments as necessary to ensure that the lenses are not causing damage and are providing you with clear, comfortable vision. We will also provide training on lens insertion, removal, and care as part of your fitting.