The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
Optical coherence tomography
Our HCA UK specialists can offer you this test and this test can be used to confirm inherited eye conditions
What is OCT?
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a type of scanner that helps your HCA UK ophthalmologists diagnose your eye condition.
Using light waves, the OCT creates a map of your retina and highlights any damaged areas. This very simple test can identify problems such as macular holes, macular degeneration and glaucoma.
Need to know
Having your test with us
Your OCT test is very straightforward. The whole process should last around 45 minutes in the consultation room and requires no anaesthetic. Your consultant will likely follow these steps:
- Give you eye drops on your arrival to dilate (enlarge) your pupils. This takes about 30 minutes to work
- Once your pupils are dilated, you will be seated in front of the OCT machine. Your eyes are then scanned for the next 15 minutes
It is worth noting that whilst the OCT test is completely painless, your vision may be slightly blurred from the eye drops. They can take between 6-8 hours to wear off. As a result it is requested that you arrange for somebody to drive you home from the hospital.
Your consultant will explain how the OCT test works and answer any questions you might have. It is unlikely you will need to prepare anything beforehand.
It is possible your consultant optician may give you your results on the day of your OCT test. Otherwise you will be informed of them in a follow-up appointment. You will be able to go home shortly after your test, and carry on with your daily routine as normal.
Our Optical coherence tomography locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.