Why Advanced Eye Imaging Matters for Calgary Patients
Traditional eye exams are important, but they don’t always reveal what’s happening beneath the surface of the eye. For people at risk of developing conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy, early detection is key. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides a deeper, more detailed view—allowing optometrists to monitor and manage eye health with greater accuracy.
At Market Mall Optometry in Calgary, we combine personalized care with modern diagnostic tools like OCT to ensure patients receive timely, effective treatment tailored to their needs. Knowing the difference between OCT and regular eye exams empowers you to make informed decisions about your eye health.
What Is an OCT Eye Exam and How Does It Work?
OCT stands for Optical Coherence Tomography. This non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to take cross-sectional pictures of the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. These high-resolution images allow optometrists to view each layer of the retina, detecting signs of disease long before any symptoms emerge.
Unlike traditional imaging, OCT can track changes in your retina over time. This makes it particularly useful for managing chronic eye conditions. Market Mall Optometry uses advanced OCT eye exams in Calgary to deliver accurate diagnostics and create customized treatment plans for each patient.
Traditional Eye Exams: Reliable, but Limited
A traditional eye exam usually includes visual acuity tests, refraction assessments, eye pressure measurement, and a general health evaluation of the eye using light and magnification. While effective for identifying common issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or cataracts, these exams may not detect subtle retinal changes that occur beneath the surface.
Traditional exams remain essential as a starting point, but for patients with risk factors—such as a family history of eye disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure—additional testing like OCT offers peace of mind and a more thorough evaluation.
OCT vs. Regular Eye Test: What’s the Difference in Results?
OCT provides detailed structural data about your retina that simply isn’t visible during a traditional exam. For example, early signs of glaucoma often involve damage to the optic nerve that can only be seen with advanced eye imaging. Similarly, conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease may be well underway before traditional tools can detect them.
At Market Mall Optometry, we use both traditional and OCT scans to give our NW Calgary patients a full picture of their eye health. It’s not a matter of one replacing the other—it’s about using the right tool at the right time.
Who Should Consider an OCT Eye Exam in NW Calgary?
While anyone can benefit from the extra information an OCT provides, it’s particularly recommended for:
- Adults over the age of 40
- People with diabetes
- Patients with a family history of eye diseases
- Those experiencing unexplained vision changes
- Anyone with high eye pressure or diagnosed glaucoma
Early detection leads to earlier treatment—and often better outcomes. That’s why Market Mall Optometry recommends regular OCT scans for patients in these higher-risk groups.
See Clearly and Confidently with the Right Diagnostic Tools
When it comes to preserving your vision, having access to the best diagnostic tools makes a real difference. Traditional eye exams are an important first step, but OCT scans provide unmatched insight into the health of your eyes. At Market Mall Optometry in NW Calgary, we combine both approaches to offer our patients the most thorough and proactive care available.
If you’re due for an eye exam or have concerns about your vision, consider booking a comprehensive assessment that includes OCT imaging. Contact Market Mall Optometry today to schedule your advanced eye imaging appointment and take the first step toward better long-term vision health.
Contact Market Mall Optometry to book your comprehensive OCT eye exam — because your eyes deserve expert care.
FAQs
Q: What is an OCT eye exam, and how is it different from a traditional eye test in Calgary?
A: An OCT exam uses advanced imaging to scan the retina, offering more detail than a standard eye exam.
Q: Is an OCT scan necessary if I already get regular eye exams in NW Calgary?
A: Yes, especially for early detection of eye diseases that traditional exams may miss. Contact Market Mall Optometry today to schedule an appointment.
Q: How often should I get an OCT eye exam in Calgary?
A: It depends on your risk factors, but many patients benefit from annual OCT imaging.
