OCT Eye Scan
See what lies beneath the surface of your eyes with detailed imaging that supports early detection and ongoing care
An OCT eye scan is an advanced imaging test that gives eye care professionals a clear view of the internal structures of your eye. It uses light waves to create detailed three-dimensional images of the retina and optic nerve. This level of insight goes far beyond what a standard eye exam provides and helps detect subtle changes long before symptoms develop.
What is an OCT scan for eyes?
An OCT scan, short for optical coherence tomography, produces highly precise cross-sectional pictures of your eye’s internal tissues, especially the retina and optic nerve. Unlike regular imaging, it shows layers deep within the eye without touching the eye itself. This makes it a safe, quick and non-invasive test that plays a vital role in modern eye care.
How OCT eye scans work
During an OCT eye exam you rest your chin on a support and look at a small target while the scanner uses light waves to capture images. The machine takes multiple scans in a matter of seconds, building a layered image that reveals the structure beneath the surface. This allows your optometrist to measure the thickness of retinal tissue and note any changes over time.
Because the scan uses invisible light rather than sound, it is comfortable and does not require direct contact with the eye. Sometimes pupil dilation is used to improve image clarity for a more thorough assessment.
See beneath the surface of your vision
Schedule your OCT eye scan in Melbourne with Clear Vision Optical now.
Why OCT is important for eye health
An OCT eye scan in Melbourne or elsewhere is an important part of comprehensive vision care because it can reveal early signs of disease before vision loss occurs. Many serious eye conditions begin with microscopic changes that do not show up in a standard sight test. OCT brings those changes to light, helping your eye care team diagnose and monitor conditions with greater confidence.
Conditions an OCT scan can detect
OCT imaging is especially useful for identifying problems such as:
- Glaucoma, where the optic nerve is damaged and vision is gradually lost
- Macular degeneration, affecting central vision
- Diabetic changes in the retina, such as swelling or fluid build-up
- Tears or detachments in the retina
- Abnormal swelling or structural abnormalities
Detecting these issues early can make a significant difference in planning treatment and slowing progression.
Who should have an OCT scan?
Your optometrist may recommend an OCT scan as part of your routine eye exam, particularly if you are at higher risk of eye disease. People with diabetes, a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, or those over a certain age often benefit from regular OCT checks. Even if your vision seems fine, OCT can reveal early changes that would otherwise go unnoticed.
How often should you get an OCT eye scan?
The recommended frequency for an OCT scan depends on your individual eye health. For some people, having an OCT as part of an annual eye examination makes sense, especially if you have a chronic eye condition or risk factors. Others may have OCT imaging every one to two years as part of ongoing monitoring. Your optometrist will advise based on your personal needs and previous results.
How OCT complements other eye care services
An OCT scan is often part of a broader eye health assessment. It works alongside measures of visual acuity, eye pressure and retinal photography to provide a fuller picture of your eye’s condition. Having a detailed OCT image on file allows your eye care team to compare results over time and spot subtle changes early. This proactive approach helps protect your vision and informs better decisions about treatment.
Experience advanced eye imaging at Clear Vision Optical
At Clear Vision Optical, we use OCT eye scans to enhance your eye health assessment in Melbourne and support early detection of a wide range of conditions. This technology allows us to monitor changes over time, giving you peace of mind and personalised care plans tailored to your needs. If you have not had an OCT scan recently, consider scheduling one as part of your comprehensive eye care routine.
Free OCT included with your eye exam
Unlike many other eye clinics in Melbourne that charge extra for optical coherence tomography scans, Clear Vision Optical includes your OCT scan at no cost as part of your regular consultation when you come in for an eye test. At most optometry practices, an OCT scan can be a separate fee of around $60–$95, meaning you pay more just to view internal eye structures that help with early detection of disease.
At Clear Vision Optical, OCT imaging is integrated into your bulk-billed eye examination for eligible Medicare card holders, so you receive advanced retinal scanning without additional charges. This means you benefit from a comprehensive assessment of your retina and optic nerve as part of your routine care, rather than paying a separate fee for this valuable test.
Final thoughts on OCT eye scans
OCT scans have transformed the way eye care professionals examine and monitor internal eye structures. By providing highly detailed, three-dimensional images, they make it possible to detect disease earlier and respond with appropriate care before vision is affected. If you are due for a detailed eye health check or have specific concerns, talk to our team about how an OCT eye scan can benefit you.