Your First Visit to Retina Eye Specialists: What to Expect
A first retinal visit is longer and more detailed than a routine eye exam. Here is exactly how it works, so nothing catches you off guard.
Our goal for a first visit is simple: you leave understanding what is happening in your eyes and what happens next. Here is how the appointment unfolds.
What to Bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- A referral or authorization if your plan requires one — obtain it from your primary care physician before the appointment
- A complete list of medications and supplements, including eye drops
- Names and contact information for your eye doctor and primary care physician
- Any prior imaging, operative reports, or records
- Your glasses and, if you wear them, contact lens information
- Sunglasses and a driver — you will be dilated
Paperwork Ahead of Time
Patient registration and medical release forms are available on our website, in English and Spanish. Completing them at home saves 15 to 20 minutes and lets you read them in comfortable lighting.
The Visit Itself
Check-in and history. We review your symptoms, medical conditions, medications, and family history. Diabetes, blood pressure, and prior eye surgery all matter here.
Vision and pressure. Visual acuity is measured for each eye, along with intraocular pressure.
Dilation. Drops widen your pupils so the entire retina can be examined. They take 20 to 30 minutes to work.
Imaging. Most patients have OCT scans and retinal photographs. Some need angiography or ultrasound. These are painless.
Examination with Dr. Garg. She examines the retina with specialized lenses, reviews your images with you on screen, explains the findings in plain language, and outlines options.
Plan and next steps. If treatment such as an injection or laser is needed, it can often be done the same day. You will leave with a written plan and your next appointment scheduled.
Plan for 90 minutes to two hours for a first visit.
After Dilation
Your near vision will be blurry and you will be light sensitive for four to six hours. Do not plan to drive, read, or return to detailed work immediately. Sunglasses make a real difference outdoors.
Insurance and Cost
We participate with a wide range of plans including Medicare, and our staff verifies benefits before your visit whenever possible. If you have questions about coverage, out-of-pocket costs, or a Good Faith Estimate as a self-pay patient, ask — we would rather discuss it up front than surprise you later.
Our Locations
- Coconut Creek: 4515 Wiles Road, Suite 201, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
- Delray Beach: 5258 Linton Blvd, Suite 305, Delray Beach, FL 33484
Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can call or text (954) 633-8202, or email frontdesk@retinaeyedoc.com.
Bring Your Questions
Write them down beforehand. Dr. Garg would far rather spend the extra few minutes than have you leave uncertain — clear explanations are part of the care.
To schedule your first visit, call (954) 633-8202.
Ready to Protect Your Vision?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Pooja Garg at Retina Eye Specialists today.
Call (954) 633-8202