Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
An advanced, painless scan that lets us see beneath the surface of your retina, helping to detect eye conditions years earlier than a standard sight test alone.
What is an OCT scan?
Optical Coherence Tomography uses light waves to take detailed cross-section images of the back of your eye, a little like an ultrasound. Where a standard photograph shows the surface of the retina, OCT lets us examine the individual layers beneath it.
This is the same technology used in hospital eye departments, and we are proud to offer it here in Pontyclun as part of our commitment to thorough, high-quality eyecare.
Because each scan is stored, we can compare results over time and spot even subtle changes to your eye health.
What happens during the scan?
- Sit comfortably at the scanner. Nothing touches your eye, and there is no puff of air.
- A quick scan of each eye. It takes just seconds and is completely painless.
- Instant detailed images. The scanner produces cross-section images of the layers of your retina straight away.
- Review with your optometrist. We look through the images with you on screen and explain what they show.
- A baseline for the future. Your scans are kept on record so changes can be tracked at future visits.
What can OCT help detect?
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Glaucoma, often years earlier than standard tests
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular holes and puckers
- Vitreous detachments
Who should have an OCT scan?
Anyone can benefit from the extra detail an OCT scan provides, but we particularly recommend it if you:
- are aged 40 or over
- have a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration
- have diabetes
- are very short-sighted
- simply want the most comprehensive eye examination available
Add an OCT scan to your next eye test
Call us on 01443 223 712 or book online, and just ask about OCT when you visit.
You may also be interested in: Eye examinations · NHS eye tests