What Is Retinal Imaging? A Johns Creek Patient's Guide
Retinal imaging is a digital photograph of the back of your eye: the retina, the optic nerve and the blood vessels that feed them. At Uptown Eye Boutique in Johns Creek, Dr. Brian Schultz uses retinal imaging as part of a comprehensive eye exam to look for problems that often have no early symptoms.
What retinal imaging shows
The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It is also the only place in the body where a doctor can see blood vessels and nerve tissue directly, without surgery. A retinal image lets Dr. Schultz look closely at:
The optic nerve, where early signs of glaucoma can appear
The macula, the center of the retina that handles sharp, detailed vision
Blood vessels, which can show changes from diabetes or high blood pressure
The edges of the retina, where tears, holes or thinning can develop
You may have heard retinal imaging called Optomap, which is one well-known brand of wide-field retinal camera. Different systems capture different amounts of the retina, but the goal is the same: a clear, saved picture of your eye's health.
Why a saved image matters
The biggest advantage of retinal imaging is the record it creates. Each image is stored in your chart, so at your next visit Dr. Schultz can compare this year's photo with last year's. Small changes that are hard to judge from memory become easy to spot side by side. That makes it a valuable tool for tracking anyone with diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, high myopia or a previous retinal finding.
It also helps you. Seeing a photo of your own retina on screen makes it much easier to understand what your doctor is describing.
Does retinal imaging replace dilation?
Not always. Retinal imaging gives a broad, detailed view, and for many patients it adds important information to the exam. Dilating the pupils lets the doctor examine the retina in three dimensions and look at areas in more depth. Depending on your eyes, your history and what the images show, Dr. Schultz may recommend imaging, dilation or both.
What to expect
Retinal imaging is quick and comfortable. You look into the camera, see a brief flash of light, and the image is taken in seconds. Nothing touches your eye. Dr. Schultz then reviews the images with you during your exam.
Pairing retinal imaging with other tests
Retinal imaging works best alongside the other parts of an eye health exam. An OCT scan shows the layers of the retina in cross-section, a visual field test checks your side vision, and an eye pressure test screens for glaucoma risk. Together they give a far more complete picture than any single test. If glaucoma is a concern, learn more about our glaucoma testing in Johns Creek.
Frequently asked questions
Is retinal imaging covered by vision insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Some plans include it and others treat it as an add-on. Our team can check your benefits before your visit; see the insurance plans we accept.
How often should I have retinal imaging?
Many patients benefit from imaging at each annual exam so changes can be compared over time. Dr. Schultz will recommend a schedule based on your eye health and risk factors.
Is retinal imaging safe?
Yes. It uses a brief flash of light, like a camera, and nothing touches your eye.
Can retinal imaging detect diabetes-related eye disease?
It can show signs of diabetic retinopathy, such as small bleeds or leaking vessels. Read our guide to diabetic eye exams to learn more.
Uptown Eye Boutique is open Monday through Saturday in Johns Creek, GA. Comprehensive eye exams are provided by Dr. Brian Schultz, OD.
Comments