Eye care involves a few different professionals, and it helps to know who does what before you book. For most people, an optometrist is the first stop, whether you need a routine eye exam or have a question about your eye health.
To choose an eye doctor in Surrey, BC, look for an optometrist who offers thorough eye exams, fits your eyewear properly, and manages common eye conditions, with the ability to refer you directly to a local ophthalmologist.
Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, or Optician: Who Does What?
An optometrist is a doctor of optometry and your main contact for day-to-day eye care. Optometrists test your vision and prescribe glasses and contacts. They can also prescribe medication for some eye diseases and manage ongoing concerns like dry eye disease.
An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating eye disease and performing eye surgery. Many people see one for a specific problem, then return to their optometrist for routine care.
Opticians fill the prescriptions your optometrist or ophthalmologist writes. They’ll help you choose frames and lenses and adjust the fit, though they don’t examine your eyes.
What to Look for in an Optometrist in South Surrey
A few details can tell you a lot about the care you’ll get at a clinic.
A Thorough Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye exam goes well beyond reading letters on a chart. Your optometrist checks how clearly you see and examines the health of your retina, optic nerve, and other structures inside your eye.
By the end of your visit, you should understand your results and any next steps.
Glasses & Contacts Fitted for You
You wear your glasses from your morning coffee until bedtime, so fit matters. Look for a clinic that carries a wide selection of frames, lenses, and contacts and has an optical team that can adjust your frames so they don’t slide down your nose.
Ask about lenses suited to how you spend your day, whether that’s long hours on a screen or a lot of driving at night.
Direct Referrals to Local Eye Surgeons
Ophthalmologists see patients by referral, and BC optometrists can send that referral directly. You won’t need a family doctor visit first, which can save time when your case is urgent. That’s especially helpful if you don’t have a family doctor right now.
When Should You See an Ophthalmologist?
Your optometrist can manage many eye conditions, but some need a surgeon or more specialized treatment. Your optometrist may refer you in situations like these:
- Cataracts start to affect your driving, reading, or other daily tasks
- You need treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can cause sudden loss of central vision
- Diabetic retinopathy progresses to a stage that may need injections, laser treatment, or surgery
After your optometrist sends the referral, the ophthalmologist’s office reviews it and books patients based on urgency. You’ll get a call or letter with your appointment date.
Non-urgent referrals can take a while, so ask your optometrist what timeline to expect.
Signs You Need Urgent Eye Care
Some eye symptoms can’t wait for a regular appointment. Go to the emergency room right away if you notice any of these:
- Sudden vision loss in 1 or both eyes
- A shadow or curtain moving across your vision, which can signal a retinal detachment
- A sudden burst of new floaters
- Flashes of light
- Eye pain that comes with nausea or vomiting
If you injure your eye, take these steps while you arrange prompt care:
- If a chemical splashes in your eye, flush it with cool water and keep flushing for 30 minutes or until the pain stops, whichever takes longer. Call BC Poison Control at 1-800-567-8911 for advice.
- Take out contact lenses before flushing if you can, but keep flushing even if they won’t come out.
- If something is stuck in your eye, leave it in place and avoid rubbing.
How to Find an Eye Doctor in Surrey
Search a directory of optometrists by location to see who practises near your home or work. Friends and neighbours can also share their experiences with local clinics.
Before you book, check each clinic’s hours and whether they’re accepting new patients. If you work weekdays, evening or weekend appointments can make regular visits easier to keep.
A little preparation can help your first appointment go smoothly:
- Pack your current glasses and contact lenses
- Write down any medications you take
- Mention any family history of eye disease
- Ask how often you should book an exam
Book Your Eye Exam in South Surrey and White Rock
At Insight Eyecare, our optometrists offer comprehensive eye exams and care for conditions like dry eye, while our optical team can help you find eyewear that suits your routine. If you need a specialist, we can send your referral directly and continue your routine care once you’re back.
Book an appointment and get to know our team. We’re happy to answer your questions before your first visit, too.
