Why is my eye doctor asking me to complete an OCT scan?

February 15, 2023

OCT scan of normal human eye

At each annual eye exam, your doctor will recommend an Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) scan. The importance of these scans are often overlooked when you're put on the spot to have them completed.  With a little information about why they’re necessary, we're sure you'll be ready to say yes to these stunning images of your eyes at your next eye exam.

OCT scans give your eye doctor fast and clear visibility into changes over time. Once the scans are completed, you and your doctor will review the images at the appointment. Your eye doctor can explain various structures of the retina, as well as potential treatment options for any new discoveries.

These screening scans of your eyes provide a 4D look to give you a deeper understanding of your overall physical health and the opportunity to get ahead of treatment and prevention. 

How are Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans taken? 

The OCT scan is a quick and painless way to see your eye's health. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary technique that allows doctors to see inside your eye without any pain or discomfort. The image is done through a noninvasive imaging method. This means that light is reflected to create images of the back of your eye. The process is quick and easy, and does not require any special preparation. 

Why are OCT scans important?

The aging process takes its toll on your eyesight. You may be recommended to have regular eye doctor appointments in order to track potential problems. OCT scans are an important tool that helps eye doctors detect disease early. The retinal scans of the eye is a stunning and concise way to display what we can see with our eyes.

For example, diabetes is a dangerous condition that can cause permanent damage to your eyes. The most common sign of this are small hemes or abnormally-looking blood vessels known as diabetic retinopathy. OCT scans can detect this condition before other symptoms usually appear.

Macular degeneration, diabetes, glaucoma, macular holes, and vitreous detachments are all clearly visible in these scans as well. With regular screenings, conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes, and macular degeneration can be detected early and treated more effectively. 

What is the cost of OCT scans?

Some insurance plans will cover the cost of OCT scans as part of a routine eye exam. However, if you do not have insurance or your plan does not cover the cost of OCT scans, the out-of-pocket cost is typically around $39-$60 for a scan of both eyes. 

The test is painless and quick. It will give you peace of mind knowing that any potential threats to your sight are identified early on before they become more serious issues. Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans are an important part of a routine eye exam as you age. They help eye doctors detect disease early so that it can be more effectively treated. So next time your doctor recommends that you have an OCT scan, don't hesitate to say yes!

Holly Springs Eye
(919) 577-3937
608 Holly Springs Rd.
Holly Springs, NC 27540

608 Holly Springs Rd, Holly Springs, NC 27540
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