What to Expect at an Eye Examination

Step 5 - Dilation- An Even Closer Look at the Eye

Some eye doctors use drops to make your pupils bigger so they can better view the internal structures of the eye. Dilation is especially important for people with risk factors for eye disease, because it allows for the most thorough evaluation of the health of the inside of your eyes. Dilating drops take about 20 to 30 minutes to work completely. For up to several hours after receiving the drops, you may be sensitive to light and have difficulty focusing on close objects. Sunglasses can minimize the effect.