If you’re booking an eye exam, you’ll be happy to know that most appointments at Warman Eyecare are efficient and thorough, typically taking just 15–30 minutes with the optometrist.
We’ve built our process to respect your time. Most patients are in and out of the exam room within half an hour, while only a few doctors occasionally book up to 45 minutes. If additional testing is needed, we’ll often schedule it on another day at no extra charge, so your regular appointment stays quick and focused.
You can expect to spend about 30–60 minutes in the clinic overall, which includes check-in, standard pre-testing such as retinal imaging and visual field screening, and, if you’d like, choosing new glasses before you leave.
Most Eye Exams Take Just 15–30 Minutes
Our eye exams are designed to be thorough, comfortable, and efficient. The optometrist’s portion of your visit typically lasts 15–30 minutes, even for first-time patients.
Some doctors may occasionally book a slightly longer exam—up to 45 minutes—but one-hour exams are uncommon. If we determine you’d benefit from extra testing, we’ll schedule it for another day at no extra cost, so your regular appointment does not go longer.
This approach lets us give you the attention your eyes deserve while keeping the experience smooth and stress-free.
Factors Affecting Exam Duration
While most exams at Warman Eyecare stay within 15–30 minutes, a few circumstances can influence how long you spend with the optometrist.
We aim to keep your visit smooth and stress-free, so when extra testing is needed, we often schedule a quick follow-up visit at no extra cost rather than extending your appointment.
Complex Eye Health Needs
If you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease, your optometrist may recommend extra checks to closely monitor your eye health.
We’ll explain why the additional testing is important and, when possible, arrange it as a separate appointment to keep your regular exam efficient.
Age-Related Eye Care
Patients over 40 and young children sometimes require a few additional tests to track age-related changes in vision.
These tests are typically quick but help us spot early signs of conditions such as presbyopia or childhood vision issues that can affect learning.
Specialty Testing
Occasionally, your optometrist may suggest advanced imaging or visual field assessments to monitor specific conditions.
Whenever that happens, we’ll let you know what to expect and decide whether to complete the testing during your visit or schedule it for a follow-up so you don’t feel rushed.
Common Tests Performed During an Eye Exam
Every eye exam at Warman Eyecare includes core tests that give your optometrist a complete picture of your vision and eye health.
These tests are quick and painless, and most take only a few minutes each.
Visual Acuity Test
This is the classic ‘read the letters on the chart’ test. It helps us measure how clearly you see at a distance and often only takes a couple of minutes.
Refraction Test
Using a device called a phoropter, your optometrist shows you different lens options. This is when you hear, “Which is clearer, 1 or 2?” It typically takes a few minutes and determines your exact prescription for glasses or contacts.
Eye Movement Test
You’ll be asked to follow a light or your optometrist’s finger while keeping your head still. This simple test checks how well your eye muscles work together and usually takes just a minute or two.
Slit-Lamp Examination
A slit-lamp microscope allows your optometrist to examine the front of your eyes, including the cornea, lens, and eyelids. It’s painless and quick, usually about 5 minutes, and can reveal early signs of conditions such as dry eye or cataracts.
Preparing for Your Eye Exam
A little preparation can make your visit even smoother and help your optometrist keep your exam efficient and on time. Here’s what you can do before you come in:
- Bring your current glasses or contact lenses. Even if you think your prescription has changed, your optometrist can use them as a reference point.
Make a list of your medications and supplements. Some can affect your vision or interact with drops used during specific tests. - Note any recent changes or symptoms. Headaches, night-vision difficulties, or eye strain are worth mentioning so we can address them during your appointment.
These small steps help your optometrist focus on what matters most—your eye health—while keeping your visit quick and stress-free.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Eye exams are about more than just updating your glasses or contact lens prescription. They’re an essential part of protecting your long-term vision and overall health.
Routine exams allow your optometrist to detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, often before you notice any symptoms. An eye exam can also reveal health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and some autoimmune diseases, giving you the chance to address them early.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends comprehensive eye exams every year for adults, with more frequent visits for anyone at higher risk of eye disease.
Because most exams at Warman Eyecare take just 15–30 minutes, it’s easy to fit one into your schedule. Taking that short time each year is one of the simplest ways to protect your sight, catch problems early, and keep your eyes healthy for life.
Take the Next Step for Your Eye Health
With exams that typically take just 15–30 minutes, looking after your eyes has never been easier. A short visit each year can help protect your vision, catch problems early, and give you peace of mind about your overall health.
Don’t let a busy schedule hold you back. Your eye exam can fit into your day without disrupting it. Our team at Warman Eyecare is here to provide thorough, comfortable care in a friendly environment.Book your appointment today and see how simple it can be to stay on top of your eye health.
