South Surrey: (604) 531-4274
Guildford: (604) 589-7311
Eye Exams
Our eye exams protect precious eyesight for all ages. Each comprehensive eye exam includes a screening optical coherence tomography (OCT) to look deep into the retinal layers beneath the surface, and ultra-widefield retinal imaging to see the periphery. Eye surgery consultations, pre and post- operative care for cataract and laser refractive patients are also offered. Our Optometrists work in close collaboration with Ophthalmologists to ensure patients receive prompt referrals and outstanding care.
Adult Eye Exam
It is recommended that those aged 20-39 years undergo an eye exam every 2-3 years, and those aged 40-64 every 1-2 years, while diabetics and those with other concerns of interest, at least once a year.
Most group benefits providers offer regular coverage for eye exams every 24 months, which may also extend to their immediate family members. Don't miss out on using your vision benefits to get a backup pair of glasses, prescription sunglasses, or even computer glasses before they expire.
Senior Eye Exam
This age group of 65+ has an increased incidence of age-related eye conditions such as cataract, which is easily treatable, but also macular degeneration and glaucoma, which can be life-changing. Our clinics have advanced diagnostic instruments to detect early signs of eye diseases, so vision loss might be prevented.
Child Eye Exam
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends children should have their first eye exam between 6-9 months, once again between 2-5 years, and annually thereafter. Our pediatric examinations include using eye drops to relax the focusing muscles of the eyes, and ultra-widefield retinal imaging whenever possible. Children undergo thorough ocular health and binocular vision assessments to identify and promptly address risks and problems that can impede visual development.
Emergencies
Same-day appointments are typically given for emergencies, as well as to those who unexpectedly break or lose their glasses.
Diabetic Eye Exam
Our instruments can detect subtle retinal changes enabling swift intervention to prevent vision loss. Diabetic macular edema can be seen on OCT before it is visible on the surface of the retina, while ultra-widefield retinal sans can reveal eye complications such as bleeding, from diabetes. Oftentimes it is an eye exam that first alerts the presence of diabetes. Eye exams for diabetics are recommended every 6-12 months.
Glaucoma Testing
All our eye exams include basic tests for glaucoma, however additional testing is required if there's a higher level of suspicion. Boardwalk Optometry has done away with traditional visual field testing and now conducts virtual reality visual field testing (Olleyes), making this once patient-dreaded test much more comfortable and even enjoyable. Diagnostic OCT scans will help detect structural changes years before conventional tests, making it a powerful tool to protect against vision loss. If you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors for glaucoma, an eye exam is recommended at least once a year.
Macular Degeneration Testing
Our eye exams include assessment of the deeper layers of the macula to detect early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) as well as its conversion to wet AMD, helping to prevent vision loss. Our Optometrists will share lifestyle and dietary insights to help you hold off or slow down the progression of AMD. Patients with AMD should be seen at least 6-12 months..
Visual Fields Testing
A visual field test determines if you have blind spots that can show how eye disease or a brain disorder is affecting your vision, and also how vision may be limited by eyelid problems such as droopy eyelids. Visual field testing is an important part of regular eye care for people who are at risk for vision loss from disease and other problems. Boardwalk Optometry has switched to conducting visual fields testing using Olleyes, a virtual reality platform, making this test quicker and much more comfortable.
People with the following conditions should have their visual fields monitored:
- Glaucoma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Thyroid eye disease
- Pituitary gland disorders
- Stroke
- Long-term use of certain medications
- Central nervous system problems (such as a tumor that may be pressing on visual parts of the brain)
High-Risk Medications
Certain medications can affect the retina, specifically the macula. Our clinics are equipped to conduct the specialized tests needed for ongoing assessments and monitoring of the eyes while such drugs are being taken.
Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) can cause blurred vision, decreased vision, scotomas and photopsias. Patients need be monitored annually as the toxicity is irreversible and can even progress after discontinuation of the drug.
Tamoxifen can cause decreased vision, changes in colour vision. Crystals may deposit around the macula and macula swelling can occur. Aromatase Inhibitors such as anastrozole (Arimidex) and letrozole (Femara) can cause dry eye, retinopathy, and cataracts, and increased incidence of floaters.
Sildenafil (Viagra) may cause temporary blue-tinted vision, light sensitivity and blurred vision. Seek immediate medical attention if sudden vision loss develops.