A retina specialist appointment is designed to examine the back of the eye in detail, identify the cause of symptoms and explain whether monitoring, treatment or surgery is appropriate.
What happens during a retinal consultation?
Your visit usually includes a discussion of your symptoms and medical history, vision and eye-pressure checks, dilating drops, a detailed retinal examination and imaging when clinically indicated. Your specialist will then discuss the findings and next steps with you.
Assessment
Symptoms, eye history, general health, medications and relevant family history are reviewed.
Examination
Vision, eye pressure and the retina are assessed, commonly after your pupils have been dilated.
Plan
Your diagnosis, test results, treatment choices and follow-up schedule are explained.
How to prepare for your retina appointment
Bring your information
Bring your referral, Medicare and insurance details, current medication list, previous eye reports or scans and the glasses you use.
Note your symptoms
Write down when symptoms began, whether they affect one or both eyes and whether they are stable, improving or worsening.
Plan for dilation
Bring sunglasses. Because vision can be temporarily affected, consider arranging someone to accompany you or help with transport.
Your retinal examination and diagnostic tests
History and initial checks
The team records your symptoms and checks vision. Eye pressure and other measurements may also be taken depending on your needs.
Dilating eye drops
Drops widen the pupils so the retina and optic nerve can be examined. They need time to work and their effects may continue for several hours.
Specialist retinal examination
The specialist uses magnification and focused light to examine the vitreous, macula, retinal blood vessels and peripheral retina.
Imaging when indicated
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can create cross-sectional images of the retina. Retinal photography, angiography or ultrasound may be recommended for particular conditions.
Diagnosis and treatment plan
Your specialist explains the findings in plain language. The plan may involve observation, medication, laser, an eye injection, surgery or coordination with another clinician.
What happens next?
The next step depends on the diagnosis and urgency. Some conditions only need monitoring, while others benefit from prompt treatment. Before leaving, make sure you understand the diagnosis, warning symptoms, treatment options and follow-up timing.
Monitoring
Stable findings may be followed with repeat examinations or imaging to identify meaningful change.
Treatment
If treatment is recommended, the benefits, risks, alternatives and expected follow-up will be discussed before proceeding.
Urgent instructions
You may be given specific symptoms that require immediate review, such as sudden vision loss, a curtain-like shadow or a rapid increase in flashes and floaters.
Explore Bright Sight’s specialist medical and surgical retina care in Sydney, or read when to see a retina specialist.
Retina appointment FAQs
How long does a retina specialist appointment take?
Appointment length varies according to the tests required and the complexity of the condition. Dilation also takes time, so allow longer than for a routine eye check.
Will my eyes be dilated?
Dilation is common because it allows a broader view of the retina. Your specialist will decide what is appropriate for your examination.
Can I drive after dilating drops?
Dilation can cause light sensitivity and blurred near vision. Individual responses vary, so ask the clinic beforehand and arrange alternative transport if you are unsure.
Are retinal scans painful?
Common retinal imaging such as OCT and photography is non-contact and usually comfortable. Your care team will explain any additional test before it begins.
Do I need a referral?
A current referral may be needed for a Medicare rebate and helps the specialist understand your clinical history. Contact the clinic if you are unsure what to bring.
Prepare for your retina consultation
Bright Sight provides specialist retinal assessment and treatment in Randwick for patients across Sydney.
This information is general and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Sudden loss of vision or other severe symptoms require urgent assessment.