Eye test in Mong Kok: a one-to-one examination by an optometrist

What the eye test covers

The optometrist arranges the checks according to your needs and the service you book. Common items include:

• Detailed consultation Your vision, work, visual habits and any family history of eye disease.
• Vision and refraction test Measuring short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.
• Pupil response test A first look at how the pupils and related nerves respond.
• Binocular coordination How well your two eyes work together, such as focusing and alignment.
• Colour vision screening An initial screening of colour perception.
• Eye pressure measurement The pressure inside the eye, one of the indicators used when assessing glaucoma risk.
• Internal and external eye health check A look at the outer and inner structures of the eye for anything that needs follow-up.

The actual scope depends on your needs and the service booked. If the optometrist finds something that needs further attention, they will recommend a referral to an eye doctor.

Equipment

• Slit lamp Magnified, illuminated examination of the eyelids, cornea, lens and other structures.
• Canon TX-F Full Auto Tonometer Measures eye pressure without touching the eye, so no anaesthetic drops are needed.
• Zeiss VISUREF 100 autorefractor A quick reading of your refractive error, used as the starting point for the optometrist's own refraction.

When to have your eyes tested

Many eye problems have no obvious symptoms early on. As a general guide, adults should have an eye test every one to two years, and children and elders every year. Book sooner if:

• Distance or near vision has become blurred, or you often squint, get headaches or tired eyes.
• Your current glasses or contact lenses feel uncomfortable.
• Your child sits very close to the TV or books, tilts their head or rubs their eyes often.
• You have diabetes or high blood pressure, or a family member has glaucoma or another eye disease.

Sudden loss of vision, eye pain, flashes of light or a shower of floaters need immediate medical attention.

Optometrist or eye doctor?

Optometrists are registered healthcare professionals in Hong Kong. They examine vision and eye health, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and screen for common eye conditions. Ophthalmologists (eye doctors) are medical specialists who diagnose and treat eye disease, including prescribing medication and performing surgery.

For everyday vision problems and regular check-ups, start with an optometrist. If the examination finds something that needs treatment, the optometrist will recommend a referral to an eye doctor.

How the visit works

1. Book Choose "Refraction Check Service" or another suitable slot online.
2. Consultation The optometrist first asks about your situation and what you need.
3. Examination Prescription, eye pressure and eye health checks as needed.
4. Results The optometrist explains the findings and whether you need glasses, a re-check or a referral.

Please bring the glasses you currently use. If you wear contact lenses, tell us when you book.

Boat licence eye test

Applicants for a pleasure vessel operator licence and similar boat licences need to submit an eyesight test certificate. Our refraction check service also covers vision checks for boat licences. Tell us the purpose when you book and bring the form you need completed. Certificates, forms or extra items may be charged separately, so please ask when booking.

Children and elders

Children's prescriptions change quickly, and regular eye tests help spot myopia early so that control options can be considered. See myopia control for children. Eligible elders aged 65 or above can use Health Care Vouchers towards applicable optometric services. See using Health Care Vouchers.