How Often Should I Have an OCT Scan of My Eyes?

When it comes to looking after your eyesight, early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have.

Many eye conditions progress quietly, without obvious symptoms in their early stages. This is where Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans play an important role.

Unlike traditional examination methods, which only show the visible surfaces of the eye, OCT uses light technology to capture detailed, cross-sectional images of the retina and optic nerve. By seeing the eye layer by layer, optometrists can detect subtle changes that may otherwise go unnoticed.

So how often should you have an OCT scan? The answer depends on your age, your general eye health, and whether you have any risk factors for eye disease. This article explains how OCT works, why it is valuable, and how often it is recommended.

What Is An OCT Scan?

An Optical Coherence Tomography scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to create high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the retina – the delicate tissue lining the back of the eye – and the optic nerve.

The technology works by directing a beam of light into the eye. The light reflects back differently depending on the structures it encounters, and the OCT device measures these reflections to map the layers of the retina with remarkable precision.

This information provides insights that are not possible with standard examination tools. For example:

• Subtle changes in retinal thickness may suggest early macular degeneration.
• Signs of nerve fibre damage can appear before glaucoma causes noticeable vision loss.
• The earliest stages of diabetic eye disease can often be picked up well before symptoms occur.

The scan is quick, painless, and contact-free. You simply sit in front of the device, place your chin on a rest, and look at a small target light while the machine captures images. Each eye takes less than a minute to scan.

Why Is OCT Important?

OCT scans are not only useful for diagnosing existing conditions but also for establishing a baseline record of your retinal health. Having these images saved on file means that future scans can be compared against your baseline. Even small changes over time can then be detected, allowing timely intervention if needed.

Eye conditions where OCT can be particularly valuable include:

Glaucoma – detecting optic nerve damage before vision loss is noticeable.

• Age-related macular degeneration – identifying changes in the central retina.
• Diabetic retinopathy – monitoring for damage to retinal blood vessels.
• Retinal detachment or tears – spotting structural changes that may need urgent care.

While OCT does not replace a comprehensive eye examination, it is a powerful complementary tool that gives a deeper view of your eye health.

How Often Should I Have An OCT Scan?

The frequency depends on your personal risk factors and your age:

People at higher risk: If you have diabetes, glaucoma, or a family history of serious eye conditions, an annual OCT scan is generally recommended. These conditions often progress silently, so yearly monitoring helps ensure that any changes are caught early.

Adults over 40: Even if you have no known eye disease, it is advisable to have at least one OCT scan after the age of 40. This provides a baseline image to compare against in the future, since the likelihood of eye conditions increases with age.

Healthy adults under 40: If you have no symptoms and no risk factors, having an OCT scan every 2–3 years is usually sufficient, unless otherwise recommended by your optometrist.

People with sudden symptoms: If you notice blurred vision, sudden flashes of light, dark spots, or other unexpected changes in your vision, an OCT scan should be done as soon as possible. These symptoms may be signs of a retinal or optic nerve problem requiring urgent assessment.

Our optometrists will always tailor advice to your individual circumstances, taking into account your health history, family history, and lifestyle factors.

What To Expect At Your Appointment

An OCT scan is a straightforward part of an eye examination. The process typically takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.

• You will be seated comfortably in front of the OCT device.
• Your chin rests on a support, and you’ll be asked to focus on a target light.
• The scan itself takes only seconds and is completely painless.

In some cases, your optometrist may use eye drops to dilate your pupils if a wider view is required.

Once complete, your optometrist will review the images with you, explain any findings, and discuss whether follow-up or further management is needed.

How Much Does An OCT Scan Cost?

At Optometrist Parramatta, the cost of an OCT scan is $80.

Eye health can change gradually over time. By including OCT scans as part of your ongoing care, you give yourself the best chance of detecting potential problems early, when treatment is most effective.

If you are due for an eye exam or have never had an OCT scan before, our optometrists can advise whether it may be recommended for you.

To find out more, book an appointment with Optometrist Parramatta today.