A digital eye exam uses advanced imaging and computer tests. This includes retinal photos, OCT scans, digital refraction, and eye-pressure checks. These tools help provide an accurate prescription and a complete eye health evaluation.
At Fusion Eye Care in Raleigh, this technology helps your doctor. It leads to faster visits, clearer results, and better long-term care.
Digital Eye Exam vs. “Old-School” Exams: What’s the Difference?
Traditional exams rely heavily on manual instruments. A digital eye exam adds high-resolution cameras, scanners, and networked devices that:
- Capture detailed images of your retina, macula, and optic nerve
- Measure your prescription with digital precision (and fewer “1 or 2?” repetitions)
- Track changes over time inside a secure electronic health record (EHR)
- Support quicker visits, clearer explanations, and more confident decisions
(Internal links to add where relevant: /eye-exams /technology /contact-lenses)
Step-by-Step: What You’ll Experience at Fusion Eye Care
1) Digital Pre-Testing (Fast Baseline Measurements)
- Autorefractor / Keratometer: Estimates your prescription and maps corneal curvature—helpful for astigmatism and contact lens fitting.
- Non-contact or iCare® tonometry: Measures eye pressure (a glaucoma risk factor).
- Digital retinal photos (e.g., Optomap®): Wide-angle images to document eye health without routine dilation in many cases.*
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) as needed: Cross-section scans of the retina and optic nerve for microscopic detail.
*Your doctor may still recommend dilation for a complete view based on your eyes and risk profile.
(Internal links: /glaucoma /retinal-imaging /eye-exams)
2) Doctor-Led Digital Refraction (Your Exact Prescription)
- Wavefront-guided / digital phoropter: Fine-tunes your prescription with smaller, more comfortable steps and side-by-side comparisons.
- Night-driving & screen-time checks: Ensures clarity where you need it most.
- Contact lens evaluation (if applicable): Corneal data + digital measurements help dial in comfort and vision.
(Internal links: /eyeglasses /contact-lenses /computer-glasses)
3) Eye Health Evaluation (Beyond 20/20)
- Dilated exam (when indicated): Allows a panoramic view of the retina, macula, and blood vessels.
- OCT & retinal imaging review: Your doctor explains images on-screen so you can “see what we see.”
- Targeted tests if needed: Visual fields (peripheral vision), topography (corneal shape for keratoconus or surgery planning), or tear film analysis for dry eye.
(Internal links: /dry-eye /myopia-management /keratoconus)
4) Personalized Plan & Next Steps
- Your doctor summarizes findings, answers questions, and recommends eyewear, contact lenses, or medical follow-up.
- All results are stored in your EHR so we can compare year-over-year changes and act early.
Why Patients Prefer Digital Eye Exams
- Accuracy: High-resolution imaging and repeatable measurements reduce guesswork.
- Comfort & speed: Fewer “which is clearer?” steps; streamlined flow.
- Early detection: Subtle changes (macula, optic nerve, cornea) are easier to spot.
- Better education: On-screen visuals make results easy to understand and share.
- Smarter follow-up: Secure records let us track trends and tailor care.
Do You Still Need Dilation?
Sometimes yes. Widefield photos and OCT are useful tools.
However, dilation is still the best method for some risks. These include diabetes, flashes or floaters, and sudden vision changes. Your doctor will recommend the safest, most informative approach for you.
Common Questions About Digital Eye Exams
Is a digital eye exam the same as an “online eye test”?
No. Online tests can’t evaluate eye health or detect disease. A digital eye exam is an in-office, doctor-led evaluation using advanced equipment.
Will insurance cover the digital tests?
Many elements are included in comprehensive exams; some medical imaging is billed based on medical necessity. Our team at Fusion Eye Care can review your benefits before testing.
Is it safe?
Yes. Imaging is noninvasive and uses light, not X-rays. Your doctor will explain each step.
How often should I get one?
Most adults benefit from annual exams; some conditions require more frequent monitoring. Your schedule depends on age, risk factors, contact lens wear, and medical history.
Ready for a Clearer, Smarter Eye Exam?
Experience modern, patient-friendly eye care at Fusion Eye Care in Raleigh. From digital refraction to retinal imaging, we’ll tailor the visit to your needs—and help you see your best.
Skip the guesswork—book your digital eye exam today.