The Examination

A technician will initiate the examination. Your eyes will be dilated. Then the Physician will see you.

Your appointment may take 1 to 3 hours of an initial visit, and 1 to 1 1/2 hours for a return appointment. Your visit may take longer if extensive tests are required or you have a complex problem. If you are seen as an emergency, you will be worked into the office schedule and will be seen as soon as possible.

We will dilate the pupils of both your eyes. Wearing sunglasses will make you more comfortable when you leave the office. You should have someone accompany you to drive home, as your vision may remain blurred for several hours after dilation.

Appointment Tips

Mahalo for choosing Retina Associates of Hawaii for your retinal eye care. The nature of a retinal eye evaluation can be a lengthy process. Although we do our best to keep exam and waiting times to a minimum, we ask that you allow adequate time for your appointment. Please keep the following in mind when you schedule your appointment:

Exam Length

A typical retinal exam can take 1 – 4 hours due to dilation, findings and additional tests.

Urgent or Unscheduled

Urgent/emergent patients are seen without an appointment which may cause delays for the patients with scheduled appointments. However, patients who come to our office without an appointment may have to wait to be examined until patients with scheduled appointments have been seen.

Additional Testing

Many patients receive testing or procedures that increases the length of their appointment.

Missed Appointments

If you cannot keep your scheduled appointment, please call the office as soon as possible so we can free your time for another patient. If you are going to be late, please call us and we will do our best to re-schedule you as soon as possible. Mahalo for your cooperation and understanding.