Advanced Retinal Screening with Optomap® and Ultra-Widefield Imaging Systems
Comprehensive Eye Care Services in Kansas and Missouri
Most Discover Vision locations offer Optomap® imaging; some use similar ultra-widefield technology that provides a broad view of the retina.
See more of your retina in a single, comfortable scan. Our advanced Optos ultra-widefield system captures a detailed view of the back of your eye. In a quick, non-contact photo, your doctor can see areas that are hard to view with traditional cameras. This helps detect and monitor problems like retinal tears, diabetic changes, macular issues, and signs of hypertension. Watch the short clip below to see how simple the process is.
Important note: Optomap is a screening image used during routine eye exams. It does not replace dilation in every case. For medical or diabetic exams, or when symptoms or exam findings warrant, your doctor may still recommend dilation.
How Advanced Retinal Screening Works
During your exam, you look into a dome-shaped device for a brief moment while a gentle flash takes a picture. There is no puff of air and nothing touches your eye. The image is available right away so you and your doctor can review it together.
Fast visit. Most scans take seconds. Comfortable. No drops in many cases, and you can return to normal activities. Wide view. A single Optomap image shows a large portion of your retina so small changes are easier to track over time.
What Can an Advanced Retinal Screening Help Detect?
Blood vessel changes from diabetes or high blood pressure
Retinal holes or tears that could lead to retinal detachment
Melanoma and other lesions in the retina
Eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration
Dr Alex Samuelson at Our Leawood KS Office
Who benefits most?
An ultra-wide field image is helpful for nearly anyone, and it is especially useful for people who want a thorough view of eye health.
Routine eye exams. Screens for retinal disease and provides a baseline for future comparison.
Diabetes or hypertension. Helps monitor small vascular changes before symptoms appear.
High myopia. Nearsighted eyes have a higher risk of peripheral retinal changes.
Family history of retinal disease. Useful for baseline and regular check-ins.
Busy schedules. Many patients can avoid dilating drops, which means less light sensitivity.
Contact lens wearers. Allows for no drops during the patient work-up, so we can better evaluate your contact lens fit.
Note: Your doctor will let you know if dilation is recommended based on your eyes and exam findings.
When dilation may still be needed
An Optomap image gives a very wide view, but there are situations where your doctor may still recommend dilation and a full retinal exam.
Medical eye examinations. Including diabetic eye exams and evaluation of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.
Symptoms. New flashes, floaters, a curtain in your vision, or sudden vision loss.
Obstructed view. Dense cataract, small pupils, or certain eyelid positions can limit imaging.
Detailed treatment planning. Some conditions require a dilated exam, peripheral indentation, or extra tests.
Follow up on findings. If Optomap reveals something unclear or suspicious, dilation allows for closer inspection.
Optos does not replace dilation in every case. Your doctor will let you know what is best for your eyes.
Dr. Brett Dawson at Our Independence
What to expect
Your technician positions you at the device and guides your gaze.
A quick flash captures the Optomap image. Most patients say it is easier than a standard photograph.
Your doctor reviews the image with you, points out normal structures, and explains any findings.
If needed, additional testing or dilation may be recommended the same day.
The Advanced Retinal Screening and Ultra Wide Field Imaging allows you to add this technology to your exam for only $39. It becomes a valuable part of your medical record, helps your doctor monitor eye health over time, and may reduce the need for dilation.
Safety and comfort
Optomap imaging is non-invasive and uses low-power scanning light. Most patients have no downtime. If dilation is not required, there is no blur and no light sensitivity from drops.
Will my insurance cover advanced retinal screening?
This is an optional screening service. It is not covered by insurance and will not be submitted to insurance. Discover Vision Centers offers this as a $39 self-pay option during routine eye exams.
Can children have advanced retinal screening?
Yes. The scan is quick, comfortable, and contact-free, making it ideal for children and teens. It provides a permanent image for comparison as they grow.
How often should I have one
?
Most patients get these images annually. Your doctor may still recommend dilation every other year or as needed, based on your eye health and risk factors.
What makes the image unique?
Advanced retinal screening captures up to a 200-degree panoramic image of the back of your eye. It’s fast, detailed, and provides a color image that both you and your doctor can view immediately. Many patients say it’s the most interesting part of their exam!
Will I still need dilation?
In some cases, dilation may still be required if the doctor needs a closer look at the retina. Your provider will discuss what’s best for your eyes during your visit.
