OCT 3D Imaging

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

People often experience changes in their vision when they reach their 40s. To look out for the early signs of eye conditions, in case there’s a more serious problem, we use an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) device. It takes a detailed 3D image below the surface of your retina, giving us a more detailed picture of your eye health.

How does this exam work?

The Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is one of the few devices that reveals in-depth images of the eye's internal structures. The exam only takes a few seconds. Nothing touches your eyes as you look into the machine and there are no puffs of air or flashes of bright light, but we may need to use eye drops to make your pupils larger. Your optometrist will discuss the results with you and keep your details on file to refer back to at your next eye examination, to check for any changes we would need to monitor, or to refer you for treatment.

What we look for

An OCT exam can aid in the detection and monitoring of serious eye diseases. As we grow older, our retinas may change in ways not always visible on the surface and without physical symptoms. Because the very early signs of some diseases may show up in this exam, it's important to book an appointment if you're worried about any of the symptoms listed below.

When to have an OCT exam

We recommend having an OCT exam at least every two years with your eye test. If you’re over 40 or have any symptoms a yearly exam is better. However, if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, please call us or book an eye test appointment straight away so we can help you find out what’s wrong:

• Trouble reading or concentrating on any activity that requires fine vision
• Straight lines appear wavy or bent
• Faces are hard to see
• You see dark or empty patches in the centre of your vision.

If you’re not sure which exam is right for you, just talk to us when you or call us on 13 20 20.