What To Expect When Your Eyes Are Dilated

It normally takes 20 to 30 minutes for dilating eyedrops to be effective. Individuals with light coloured eyes (blue or green) will dilate faster than people with darker coloured eyes. Dilated pupils cause light sensitivity and difficulty focusing on near objects. These effects can last for several hours, depending on the strength of the drop used and on the individual.

When you are going to have a dilated eye examination at the ophthalmologist, you should bring sunglasses with you to minimise glare and light sensitivity when you finish your appointment. Dilating eyedrops cause a variable amount of blurry vision for an unpredictable length of time. Your eye doctor cannot tell you how much your vision will be affected and for exactly how long. Sydney Ophthalmic Specialists strongly recommend that you do not drive after having your pupils dilated due to the light sensitivity and blurred vision the dilating drops can cause. Please make arrangements to have someone drive you after your appointment. Alternatively, our clinic is easily accessible by public transport as we are located in the heart of the Sydney CBD. Martin Place train station is a level 5-7 minute walk from SOS, and many Sydney buses stop on Macquarie street and surrounds. If you’re able to catch a Sydney ferry, we are a 10 minute uphill walk from Circular Quay. For more information on planning your trip to SOS using public transport in Sydney visit www.131500.com.au or contact our helpful staff on (02) 9241 2913.

If you have any questions before or after your dilated eye examination, please call Sydney Ophthalmic Specialists on (02) 9241 2913 and speak with your eye doctor.

Adapted from the American Academy of Ophthalmology http://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/what-to-expect-eyes-are-dilated