What Happens at a Cataract Evaluation? A Step-by-Step Guide

Blurry vision, trouble seeing at night, or faded colors may be more than just a sign of aging—they could indicate cataracts. If you’re wondering what happens at a cataract evaluation, this step-by-step guide walks you through the process at a trusted eye clinic in Toronto, helping you prepare with confidence and ease.

1. Health History & Initial Consultation

Your visit begins with a personal consultation. A technician or eye doctor will ask about your:

• Changes in vision
• Medications you’re currently taking
• Health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
• Previous eye surgeries or injuries

Understanding your health history helps determine how cataracts are developing and whether other factors could be contributing. It’s also the perfect time to mention any new or bothersome visual changes—nothing is too minor to share.

2. Visual Acuity Testing

Next, you’ll complete a standard visual acuity test. You’ll be asked to read letters on a chart at different distances, one eye at a time, with and without your glasses or contacts. This helps assess how well you’re seeing overall and whether your symptoms may be cataract-related.

3. Refraction Assessment

Using a phoropter (the machine that flips between lenses), your eye doctor fine-tunes your prescription by asking which lens appears clearer. You might hear, “Which looks better—one or two?” several times. If updating your prescription doesn’t improve clarity, that’s often a sign that cataracts are affecting your vision.

4. Slit-Lamp Examination

The slit lamp is a specialized microscope that allows a detailed look at the front of your eye—specifically the cornea, iris, and lens. During this exam:

• You’ll rest your chin and forehead on a support
• A bright light scans across your eye

This allows the doctor to detect clouding of the lens, which confirms the presence and extent of cataracts. The procedure is painless and quick.

5. Dilated Eye Exam

To examine the back of your eye, the doctor will use special drops to dilate your pupils. This takes about 15–30 minutes. Once dilated, your doctor can fully assess the lens and retina to:

• Confirm the severity of cataracts
• Check the retina and optic nerve for additional conditions
• Evaluate surgery readiness if needed

Be sure to bring sunglasses, as your eyes will be light-sensitive afterward. It’s also a good idea to arrange for a ride, as driving immediately after may not be safe.

6. Tonometry (Eye Pressure Test)

Tonometry measures the pressure inside your eye and screens for glaucoma. Though not directly related to cataracts, it’s an important component of your eye health. You may feel a light touch on our eyes with our non-airpuff machine that is fast and gentle.

7. Discussing Lifestyle Impact

Your doctor will also ask how your vision affects your daily activities. Common concerns might include:

• Difficulty driving at night
• Trouble reading or using a computer
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• More frequent tripping or falling
• Challenges with hobbies like sewing, crafting, or sports

If these issues are interfering with your life, it may be time to consider treatment. Getting personalized advice from an experienced eye care clinic in North York ensures that decisions are made based on your lifestyle—not just test results.

8. Recommendations and Next Steps

After completing your evaluation, your doctor may recommend one of the following:

• Monitoring your cataracts with regular checkups
• Updating your glasses or contact lens prescription
• Scheduling cataract surgery

If surgery is needed, you’ll discuss:

• The best lens options for your vision needs
• Timing and preparation for the procedure
• What to expect during recovery

You may also be referred to a cataract surgeon for a consultation or additional testing.

Final Thoughts

A cataract evaluation offers more than a diagnosis—it gives you a plan and peace of mind. With expert guidance, you can take control of your eye health and continue doing the things you love. If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, don’t wait. Schedule your eye exam for cataracts with Yorkdale Eye Care today and take the first step toward clearer, more confident vision.