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Pediatric Eye Exam services offered in Plano, TX
Children will typically undergo vision screens both with the peidatrician and at school. It is important to follow up with an ophthalmologist if a child is flagged on a vision screen. Additionally, if there is a family history of eye disease, screening may be recommended.
What is a pediatric eye exam?
Pediatric eye exams are similar to adult exams in that they consist of a sight test and screening for eye disease.
Sight tests check how well your child can see and if they need corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses. Screening procedures detect early signs of eye conditions before they reach a more serious stage.
When should I book a pediatric eye exam?
Leading ophthalmology organizations in the United States recommend a specific schedule for pediatric eye exams:
Newborns
A member of your medical team examines your newborn’s eyes for basic eye health indicators, such as the blink and pupil response. An ophthalmologist should perform a comprehensive eye exam on premature babies, those with signs of eye disease, and infants with a family history of childhood eye disorders.
6 months to 36 months
Your child should have two more eye exams before they reach age 3. These exams check eye alignment, movement, and development, and help detect problems like amblyopia.
3 onwards
Your child should have sight tests when old enough to read the eye chart.
Your pediatrician or family doctor may perform these exams, but it’s vital to visit Pediatric Ophthalmology Partners of Texas if the procedure highlights signs of:
- Strabismus (crossed eyes)
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Refractive errors
Refractive errors include nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, which result in blurred vision.
Starting treatment for these issues early reduces their impact on your child and protects their vision for the future.
What happens at a comprehensive pediatric eye exam?
Dr. Dao tailors each child’s comprehensive pediatric eye exam to their specific needs. She has a unique approach and can complete eye exams on all children regardless of their differences, including those with special needs or are neurodivergent.
Procedures she may use, depending on the child’s age, might include:
- Reading an eye chart to test distance vision
- Phoroptor® assessment to select refractive error correction lenses
- Shining a light into the eye to test pupil response
- Peripheral (side) vision tests
- Ocular motility tests to evaluate eye movement and alignment
- Visual field testing
- Slit-lamp microscope view of the cornea, iris, lens, and eyelids.
- Dilating eye drops for retina and optic nerve examination
Diagnostic imaging procedures like the Optos® fundus camera might also form part of a pediatric eye exam.
To learn more or arrange your child’s eye exam, call Pediatric Ophthalmology Partners of Texas today or book an appointment online.