FAQ

Yes. Pediatrics eyes are different from adults in many ways and one of them is that they typically cannot bypass this crucial step. Dilation helps us determine the child’s refractive error (see if they need glasses) and allows us to see the posterior part of the eye (retina and optic nerve). We cannot get an accurate measurement of their refractive error or assessment of their ocular health without the dilation drops.

We recommend all new patients needing a comprehensive eye exam get dilated. Established patients are typically dilated once a year.

If your child is not having any symptoms and has been screened by the pediatrician, we recommend an eye exam by 4 years of age.

If there is any family history of amblyopia or strabismus or high refractive error, we recommend an eye exam by 2 years of age.

​​​​​​​If your child is having any symptoms, we recommend an exam around 6 months - 1 year of age unless otherwise directed by their pediatrician.

No, LASIK cannot correct amblyopia. LASIK simply eliminates the need for glasses or contacts but cannot treat amblyopia.

Yes, all strabismus surgeries are covered by medical insurance. Even if the surgery is covered, you may still have out-of-pocket costs such as co-pays, deductibles, or coinsurance. Check with your insurance provider to understand what your financial responsibility will be.

Usually not. It depends on the type of strabismus. The best way to determine that is with an evaluation.

Both Ophthalmologists and Optometrists can diagnose and treat amblyopia and/or strabismus. Both can prescribe glasses, prescribe medication, and treat medical eye conditions, such as eye infections.

An Ophthalmologist is an eye surgeon. They can treat strabismus using surgery

Optometrists are not eye surgeons. We may use other methods to treat strabismus if it is suitable for the patient or will refer to a pediatric ophthalmologist when needed.

Your child first needs a comprehensive eye exam. If the comprehensive eye exam is within 6 months, then they can schedule a contact lens training appointment. It takes the average patient 1 - 1.5 hours to learn how to put in contacts. Please call our office for either the contact lens training appointment or comprehensive eye exam. Contact lens fittings typically require 2 to 3 appointments to ensure that new users can safely insert their lenses. These additional visits are essential for finalizing the contact prescription.

The lab to make the lens of the glasses takes 7-10 business days (not including weekends). Expedited processing is also available for a small additional cost.

Please bring the patient, and your ID, and insurance card.

For new patients, please ensure that all New Patient Forms are completed prior to the appointment. If a parent or guardian is unable to accompany the minor to the exam, a written authorization from the parent or guardian must be provided by the individual bringing the patient. Unfortunately, we cannot proceed with the examination without this authorization.

The written authorization should include:

• The name of the person authorized to bring the minor (must match their ID or driver's license)

• The name of the minor patient

• The signature of the parent or guardian (must match the signature on file)

Thank you for your cooperation!