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What Happens During an Eye Exam? Your Austin FAQ

eye exam

If you’ve been putting off your next eye exam because you’re not sure what to expect, you’re in the right place! At Westlake Eyecare in Austin, we believe an eye exam should be comfortable, thorough, and maybe even a little fun. Whether you’re visiting Dr. Katie Kaufman, Dr. Amy Jones, or Dr. Haley Nguyen, our goal is to help you see your best — and keep your eyes healthy for years to come.

Let’s answer some of the most common questions we hear from our patients.

How often should I book an eye exam?

For most healthy adults, a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years is perfect. But if you wear glasses or contact lenses, have a family history of eye disease, or manage a health condition like diabetes, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent visits.

Kids should start even earlier. Our doctors recommend a first eye exam between 6–12 months old, another at age 3, and again before starting kindergarten. From there, annual exams help ensure their vision stays sharp for school and play.

What happens during an eye exam at Westlake Eyecare?

First, we’ll chat about your vision, lifestyle, and any concerns. Then, we put our state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to work. This can include:

  • Digital retinal imaging to get a clear, detailed look at your eye health — without dilating drops in many cases.
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to detect early changes in your retina.
  • Automated visual field testing to check your peripheral vision.
  • Precision vision testing to ensure your prescription is spot-on.

We also check for signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration — often before you notice any symptoms. If you need new glasses or contact lenses, you’ll have plenty of stylish frame and lens options to explore.

Do kids really need a pediatric eye exam?

Absolutely! A child’s vision plays a huge role in learning, coordination, and confidence. Many vision problems — like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or eye teaming issues — aren’t always obvious. A pediatric eye exam can catch these early, before they affect reading, sports, or classroom performance.

Our team knows how to make kids feel comfortable and engaged. From colorful exam rooms to friendly explanations, we turn a “doctor visit” into a positive experience.

Does Westlake Eyecare take vision insurance?

We work with many vision insurance plans, but coverage varies. During your visit, our friendly staff can help you understand your benefits, including what’s covered for exams, eyewear, or contact lenses. Even if you don’t have vision insurance, we can review payment options so your care fits your budget.

What are the early signs I should watch for in kids and adults?

For adults, schedule a checkup if you notice:

  • Blurry or double vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Frequent eye strain or headaches
  • Sudden changes in vision

For kids, watch for:

  • Squinting or sitting too close to the TV
  • Covering one eye
  • Trouble following along when reading
  • Complaints of headaches or tired eyes

Even if everything seems fine, regular eye exams can detect issues long before symptoms appear.

The bottom line

An eye exam at Westlake Eyecare is more than just a quick vision check. It’s a complete look at your eye health, powered by advanced technology and personalized care from our amazing doctors. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, we’re here to make the process simple, stress-free, and even a little fun.

See the difference for yourself!
Book your next eye exam with Westlake Eyecare in Austin today — and keep your vision clear for the road (and life) ahead.

📱 Call us or schedule online to reserve your spot.