We believe everyone deserves the best eye care, which is why we have invested in advanced technology in our stores across the UK. The Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a state-of-the-art technology which provides our Optometrists with more information and detail of your eye health in a matter of seconds. The OCT captures a 3D image and scan of the back of your eye, enabling us to detect certain eye conditions much sooner and before you notice any changes in your vision.
What is an OCT Scan?
The OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) is a scan that allows us to see beneath the surface of your eyes. This scan provides a detailed 3D image of the retina and the layers of the retina, enabling us to assess your eye health more thoroughly.
Traditionally eye examinations only allow us to see the top layer of the retina. Now with OCT we can
- Detailed Imaging: The OCT scan captures the retina and its various layers, allowing us to measure their thickness and understand your eye health better.
- Ongoing Monitoring: At M&S Opticians, we perform an OCT scan during every eye test. The scans are saved in your record so we can monitor and pick up any changes over time.
- Early Detection: This advanced technology helps detect eye health conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration much earlier than traditional methods.
How does an OCT scan work?
In the matter of seconds, the OCT uses light waves to create 1000’s of images of the back of your eye. This then forms a scan of all the different layers.. It is quick, painless and does not touch the eye.
- Procedure: You'll place your head on a chin rest in front of the OCT scanner. Both eyes will be scanned, with a brief flash of light as images are captured.
- Comfort: The scan is non-invasive and doesn't cause any discomfort, so there's no need to worry.
Your Optometrist will discuss your OCT scan during the eye examination.
What is the difference between an OCT scan and an eye test?
OCT scan is separate from an eye test. An eye test checks your eye health as well as how well you can see. Part of that often involves taking an image of the back of the eye (digital retinal photography), but an OCT scan takes this a step further, allowing your optician to look even deeper into your eyes and the structures within them. These deeper structures are not directly visible during an eye examination.
Who should get an OCT scan?
We include this as part of your eye examination
An OCT scan is beneficial for everyone, even if your vision seems perfect. We usually recommend it especially if you are aged 25 or older, as it helps keep track of your eye health and detect potential issues early. Some of the conditions an OCT scan can detect are:
- Glaucoma – Up to 4 years sooner.
- Diabetic Retinopathy - At a diabetic screening appointment fundus images are taken of the back of the eye.
- Age-related Macular Degeneration - The OCT will provide an indepth scan of the layers below the retina, allowing us to see any changes to the eye health.
Regular OCT scans are vital for safeguarding your eye health, particularly as you age.
Are there any side effects of OCT scans?
An OCT scan is a safe, non-invasive procedure using low-power laser light. The technology is designed to stop scanning if there's any risk of overexposure to light.
There are no risks or side effects associated with the procedure, making it a safe choice for regular eye health monitoring.