Regular comprehensive eye examinations are one of the best ways to protect your long-term vision. Many eye conditions develop gradually and may not cause symptoms until permanent damage has already occurred.
At Westmead Eyes Optometrists, we provide comprehensive eye examinations using advanced diagnostic technology and extended consultation times to assess both your vision and eye health. Located within Westmead Public Hospital, Sydney, our examinations are designed to detect eye disease early, optimise your vision and identify problems before they become more serious.
What To Expect at Your Eye Examination
Your consultation is designed to be thorough and tailored to your needs – we don’t rush through appointments.
A standard consultation takes approximately 30 minutes and includes:
- Vision assessment
- Glasses prescription assessment
- Detailed eye health examination
- Screening for early signs of eye disease
- Assessment of how your eyes work together
Depending on your symptoms, family history or clinical findings, we may recommend additional diagnostic testing such as retinal imaging, corneal topography or functional vision testing.
These are offered as separate specialised consultations, and our team will guide you if they are recommended.
Fees & What Patients Typically Pay
Our examinations are tailored to each patient.
Many patients choose to include advanced retinal imaging (OCT), allowing earlier detection of glaucoma, macular degeneration and retinal disease.
- Eye examination: Medicare bulk billed (where eligible)
- Advanced retinal imaging (OCT): $95 out-of-pocket
Most patients pay between $95–$100 for a comprehensive assessment.
This reflects the level of technology and time required for a thorough assessment of your eye health and vision.
We will always explain any additional tests and costs before proceeding.
Why Choose Westmead Eyes?
Our comprehensive eye examinations combine advanced technology with longer consultation times to provide a more detailed assessment of your vision and eye health.
This is particularly valuable for patients with:
- Keratoconus and corneal disease
- Dry eye disease
- Glaucoma risk
- Myopia progression
- Binocular vision and focusing problems
- A family history of eye disease
Our goal is not simply to determine whether you need glasses, but to understand how your eyes function, detect disease early and help protect your long-term vision.
Additional Specialised Assessments
Some patients may require more detailed testing depending on their symptoms or visual needs.
This may include:
- Dry eye assessments for symptoms such as irritation, burning, or fluctuating vision
- Myopia (short-sightedness) management for children and young adults
- Binocular vision assessments for headaches, dizziness, or reading difficulties
These are provided as separate specialised consultations where appropriate, and our optometrists will discuss whether they are recommended for your individual needs.
When Is A Binocular Vision Assessment Needed?
This may be recommended if you experience:
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Double vision
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Difficulty reading
- Difficulty concentrating
These concerns are assessed during our Binocular Vision Assessment, with fees starting from $195
Dilated Eye Examinations
In some cases we may recommend dilating your pupils to allow a more detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve.
This may be performed during your appointment or arranged for a follow-up visit.
Following dilation, your vision may be blurred for several hours. We recommend bringing sunglasses and arranging for someone else to drive you home if required.
What Is Checked During A Comprehensive Eye Examination?
Your eye examination includes two important components.
Vision & Prescription
We assess for:
- Short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
- Changes to your glasses prescription
Eye Health
We assess:
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetic eye disease
- Retinal conditions
- Corneal disease
- Cataracts
- Dry eye disease
Eye examinations can also reveal signs of certain systemic health conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Cholesterol abnormalities
Where appropriate, we communicate our findings with your GP or ophthalmologist to help coordinate your ongoing care.
Advanced Diagnostic Equipment at Westmead Eyes Optometrists
Our practice is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to assist in the early detection, diagnosis and monitoring of eye disease.
