The Next Exciting Step in Eye Care - Optomap

Eye care
Written By Lucinda Howard

At Arthur Hayes, we have always invested in the very latest technology to help us identify sight-threatening conditions as early as possible. 20 years ago, we invested in a retinal camera producing a static photograph of the retina in great detail. In 2011 as optical technology continued to evolve we got our first OCT 3D retinal scanner and in 2022 we have now introduced the addition of Optomap.
An interesting video about Optomap can be viewed below:

What are the benefits of Optomap?
Optomap is an ultra-wide scan of the back of your eye, which allows us to view up to 82% of your retina, compared to 15% of your retina seen with more traditional technology. You will be familiar with the retinal image taken in the eye examination; this image below shows just how much more we can now see with Optomap without the need for dilation of the pupil with eye drops.

Optomap retinal imaging in detail

Optomap is a simple, non-invasive procedure. It takes less than 1 second to capture and produces a very detailed colour image of your retina. This enables us to see much more of your retina than ever before, measure aspects of your eye, and zoom in to see some of the finer details at various layers of your retina. Most importantly just as with an OCT, it is an effective way to track changes in your eyes over time. Optomap images are created by non-invasive, low-intensity scanning lasers. No adverse health effects have been reported in over 150 million sessions.

I recommend Optomap for every patient as I believe that a detailed assessment of the retina is extremely important for ensuring the very best eye care. Optomap is only now becoming available in some select eye hospital departments so this is a great addition for any possible onward referral as images can also be shared with relevant consultants.

From May 16th 2022 Optomap is included as standard with all routine eye examinations. The eye examination fee is £90 including Optomap and OCT. For patients, under 30 years the fee is £35 (if you have health insurance you may be able to claim any optical care back from your policy).

I look forward to welcoming you in practice again soon and sharing this amazing technology.

Lucinda

*The information presented here reflects general information about the retina and Optomap but of course there are always exceptions to these

Have you discovered our other monthly blogs?

Blog
Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes: Essential Eye Health Information
Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes: Essential Eye Health Information

Diabetes and pre-diabetes can have a serious impact on your eye health—often without early symptoms. Discover how regular eye exams, including advanced OCT and Optomap scans, can help detect and manage changes before they affect your vision.

Read More →
Protect Your Vision: Avoid These Harmful Eye Health Habits
Protect Your Vision: Avoid These Harmful Eye Health Habits

Your eyes work hard daily, but many routines can unknowingly put them at risk. From excessive screen time to poor nutrition, small habits can have big consequences on your long-term eye health. Understanding these risks is the first step in protecting your vision. In this guide, we explore the most common behaviours that harm your eye health—and what you can do to prevent them.

Read More →
Spring eye care: Protecting and prioritising your vision
Spring eye care: Protecting and prioritising your vision

As spring blossoms, so do the opportunities to embrace the outdoors—whether it's longer walks, garden gatherings, or drives in bright daylight. However, eye care is often neglected while we prepare our wardrobes and skincare routines for the warmer months. At Arthur Hayes Opticians, we highlight the importance of seasonal eye health with our latest blog in the monthly eye care series. Spring brings sunshine and pollen and unique challenges for your vision. Here's what you must know to keep your eyes protected, comfortable, and healthy this season.

Read More →
 
Lucinda Howard
Previous

Dive Into Clarity: Discover Prescription Swimming Goggles
Next

Unraveling the mystery of human crying