What Is an OCT Scan?
An OCT scan (Optical Coherence Tomography) is an advanced, non-invasive eye test that uses light waves to capture detailed cross-sectional images of your retina. Think of it like an ultrasound for your eye — but using light instead of sound to produce high-resolution images of the tissue layers at the back of your eye.
During an OCT eye exam, your optometrist can see beneath the surface of the retina to measure the thickness of each layer. This allows early detection of eye diseases — often before you notice any symptoms or vision changes.
The entire OCT eye test takes just seconds, requires no eye drops, and is completely painless. At Elevate Vision Care, we use OCT imaging as part of our comprehensive eye exams, protecting your long-term vision health.
What Can an OCT Scan Detect?
Detects optic nerve damage and thinning of the nerve fiber layer before vision loss occurs.
Identifies early changes in the macula, including drusen and fluid buildup.
Reveals swelling, leaking blood vessels, and retinal changes caused by diabetes.
Measures retinal thickness to detect fluid accumulation in the macula.
Identifies structural changes like holes or wrinkling of the retinal surface.
Evaluates optic nerve head structure for signs of damage or swelling.
What to Expect During Your OCT Eye Test
- You sit in front of the OCT machine and rest your chin on a support — similar to other eye exam equipment.
- You look at a small target light inside the device while the machine scans your eye.
- The scan captures detailed images in just a few seconds — no contact with your eye, no discomfort.
- No eye drops or dilation are required in most cases, so you can drive home immediately after.
- Your optometrist reviews the OCT images with you during your appointment and explains any findings.
The entire process is quick, comfortable, and requires no preparation on your part. Most patients are surprised by how fast and easy it is.
Who Should Get an OCT Eye Exam?
Your optometrist may recommend an OCT scan if you:
- Have diabetes or a family history of diabetic eye disease
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Are over 40 years old
- Have high myopia (severe nearsightedness)
- Have a history of retinal conditions or eye surgery
- Are experiencing unexplained vision changes
OCT as routine screening
Even without risk factors, an OCT scan provides a valuable baseline image of your retina. Many optometrists now include OCT imaging as part of a comprehensive eye exam so that future scans can be compared to detect subtle changes over time. Early detection is the key to preserving your vision.
Your OCT Specialists
Our optometrists use OCT imaging as part of their comprehensive approach to eye care, ensuring early detection and personalized treatment for every patient.
Fluent in English and Cantonese
Dr. Melissa Yeung is a neuro-optometrist with advanced training in vision therapy, neuro-optometric rehabilitation, and complex visual disorders. Following her Doctor of Optometry degree from UC Berkeley, she completed a competitive Residency in Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation at SUNY College of Optometry in New York City, where her clinical excellence earned her the Dr. Martin Birnbaum Memorial Award for expertise in behavioural optometry. She is a Fellow of the Optometric Vision Development & Rehabilitation Association (FOVDR).
Fluent in English and Cantonese
Dr. Jason Huang grew up in Toronto and majored in Biology at Ryerson University before earning his Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry (NECO) in Boston. At NECO, known for its strong clinical training, he gained diverse experience through rotations in primary care, specialty contact lenses, low vision, binocular vision, and ocular disease clinics.
OCT Scan FAQs
How long does an OCT scan take?
The scan itself takes only a few seconds per eye. Including setup, the entire process is usually done in under 5 minutes.
What is the difference between a retinal scan and an OCT scan?
A retinal photo captures a 2D image of the retinal surface. An OCT scan produces detailed cross-sectional images that show the individual layers beneath the surface — similar to how an MRI shows layers of tissue. OCT provides significantly more diagnostic information than a retinal photo alone.
Do I need to dilate my eyes for an OCT scan?
In most cases, no. OCT scans can be performed without dilation. Your optometrist may recommend dilation for other parts of your exam, but the OCT itself typically does not require it.
How often should I get an OCT scan?
Your optometrist will recommend a frequency based on your individual risk factors. Patients with conditions like glaucoma or diabetes may need OCT scans every 6-12 months. For general screening, an annual OCT as part of your comprehensive exam is common.
Does an OCT scan hurt?
Not at all. OCT is completely non-invasive — nothing touches your eye. You simply look at a light while the machine captures images.
What are the side effects of an OCT eye scan?
There are no known side effects. OCT uses harmless low-intensity light — no radiation, no dye, and no contact with the eye. It is safe to repeat as often as needed, making it suitable for routine monitoring of eye health.
Is an OCT scan covered by OHIP?
OCT scans are generally not covered by OHIP and are considered a private diagnostic service. The scan fee is typically paid out-of-pocket or reimbursed through extended health insurance benefits. We recommend checking with your insurance provider about coverage.
Is an OCT scan worth it?
For most patients, yes. OCT can detect early signs of serious eye conditions — such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy — years before symptoms appear or vision loss occurs. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, making OCT a valuable part of a comprehensive eye exam.
Book Your OCT Eye Exam
Protect your vision with advanced retinal imaging. Book your comprehensive eye exam with OCT scan today.
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