What to Expect During Your First Visit

A typical first appointment may last 2.5 to 3 hours total and consists of the components outlined below. This ensures a thorough examination and complete understanding of your condition.

• Medical history examination taken by Ochsner Eye technicians.
• Glaucoma testing as necessary, including visual field and pachymetry. These tests may not need to be repeated if recently done with your primary eye doctor and there is no need for confirmation of suspected changes.
• Slit Lamp and gonioscopy examination by Dr.Ochsner and Intraocular Pressure (IOP) reading.
• Dilation, if Dr. Ochsner feels it is safe and appropriate, followed by Optic Nerve imaging (HRT).
• After dilation, the doctor will complete the glaucoma evaluation by doing an optic nerve and fundus exam.

For your first appointment, we request that you:

• Complete our new patient packet, available for download here. Bring it with you on your appointment day or fax it to us at (910) 343-1770.
• Ask your referring doctor to fax referral forms, old examination notes and visual field tests results to us.
• Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking, including multivitamins and supplements.
• Bring all ocular medications with you.
• Have a driver available.