Visiting an optometrist for the first time can feel a little intimidating — what will happen? Will I get stuck waiting forever? Do I really need new glasses?
At The Eye Guys, our goal is to make your first experience stress-free, welcoming, and clear. If you need eye care for your family in Sioux Falls, SD, we can help. If you are looking for an optometrist for your first eye exam, we have a process in place. Shape
1. Checking In & Initial Paperwork
Warm Welcome
When you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted by our front desk staff. We’ll confirm your appointment, verify insurance (if applicable), and guide you to a comfortable waiting area.
New Patient Forms
If you haven’t already filled out your new patient forms online, we’ll ask you to complete them on-site. These include:
- Basic demographics (name, address, contact info)
- Vision and medical history (eye health, family history, any current eye concerns)
- Insurance / billing details
Completing these forms ahead of time, when possible, may help shorten your wait.
2. Pre-Testing & Imaging
Before you see the optometrist, a technician will conduct several pre-tests to gather baseline data. These might include:
- Autorefractor / autorefractor reading (initial refractive measurement)
- Keratometry (measuring the curvature of your cornea)
- Non-contact tonometry / air puff test (to measure eye pressure)
- Lensometry (if you wear glasses, to verify power)
- Pachymetry (optional; measuring corneal thickness)
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and retinal imaging / fundus photography
These imaging tests let us look beneath the surface — assessing the retina, optic nerve, and other structures — and help detect early signs of disease. The imaging also provides a “map” we use to guide your personalized care.
3. Comprehensive Eye Examination
Once your preliminary tests are done, you'll meet with the optometrist. This stage typically includes:
- Review of your history & concerns
The doctor will go over your health form and ask whether you’ve noticed changes in vision, discomfort, headaches, or other symptoms. - Visual acuity tests
Reading letters on a chart to measure clarity at near and distance. - Refraction & lens selection
Through the phoropter (“which is better, 1 or 2?”) we refine your prescription. - Binocular vision / eye alignment / tracking tests
To check how your eyes work together (especially important for reading, digital screen use, children). - Slit-lamp exam
Using a microscope to inspect the front structures of the eye (cornea, lens, eyelids). - Intraocular pressure & optic nerve / fundus exam
The doctor will look inside your eye — the retina, macula, optic nerve — sometimes with pupil dilation, to rule out glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other conditions.
If any findings are unclear or concerning, we can re-examine, repeat imaging, or order further tests.
4. Personalized Care Recommendations
After your exam, the optometrist will share their findings and guide your next steps. This part of the visit is all about you. You can expect:
- A clear explanation of your eye health and vision
- A discussion of whether you need a new prescription (glasses or contact lenses)
- Recommendations for frame or lens options (if applicable)
- Preventive care or monitoring (for early signs of glaucoma, macular changes, dry eye)
- Vision therapy, specialty lenses, or referral to a specialist (if needed)
- Follow-up plan (annual exam frequency, interim checkups)
We’ll answer your questions, provide cost estimates, and give you time to decide what’s best.
5. Final Steps & Check-Out
Once your care plan is set:
- We’ll provide printed or emailed documentation of your prescription and any recommendations.
- If you order glasses or contacts through us, we’ll guide you through the selection, ordering, and expected timeline.
- If no eyewear order is needed, we’ll schedule your next exam or follow-up.
- The front desk will handle payments, insurance claims, and paperwork.
FAQs & Tips to Make Your Visit Easier
Will I need dilation?
Often yes — it gives a better view of the retina. We’ll let you know beforehand.
How long will the visit take?
For new patients, expect about 45–60 minutes (sometimes a bit longer).
Can children come along?
Yes — we welcome families. Just let us know in advance if any assistance is needed.
Should I bring anything?
Bring any current glasses, contact lenses, insurance card, and list of medications.
Is it ok to ask questions?
Absolutely — we encourage you to ask. It’s your eyes, your care.
Why Our First Visit Is Different
- Patient-focused pace — we never rush through your exam
- State-of-the-art imaging — giving us a more detailed “map” of your eye health
- Transparent guidance — we explain your results in straightforward terms
- Family-friendly environment — we serve patients of all ages
- Continuity of care — you’ll always have a personalized plan going forward
New to The Eye Guys? Here’s How We Make Your First Visit Easy and Stress-Free
We believe that trust is built through clarity and care. From check-in to imaging to personalized recommendations, your comfort and understanding matter. If you’re looking for family eye care in Sioux Falls, SD or seeking an experienced optometrist in Sioux Falls for your new patient eye exam, we’re here for you.
Ready to schedule your first visit? Contact us today, and we’ll make sure your experience with The Eye Guys is seamless, professional, and reassuring.