OCT Eye Scans in San Antonio

A closer look at the health of your eyes

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a quick, painless scan that shows the layers of your retina and optic nerve in remarkable detail. It helps Dr. Cynthia Phelps and Dr. Derek Mead find changes early, often before you notice any symptoms.

Call to ask about OCT

What is an OCT scan?

OCT works a little like an ultrasound, but it uses light instead of sound. In a few seconds, it creates cross-section images of the back of your eye, showing each layer of the retina and the fibers of the optic nerve.

A standard eye exam lets your doctor see the surface of the retina. OCT goes a step further, measuring the thickness of these layers so even very small changes can be spotted and tracked.

Why patients like it

  • Painless, with nothing touching your eye
  • No puff of air
  • Takes only seconds per eye
  • Uses light, not X-rays or radiation

What OCT helps us detect and monitor

OCT gives your doctor detailed information about several common eye conditions. It's one part of a complete exam, used together with your history and other tests.

GlaucomaMeasures the optic nerve and nerve fiber layer, which can thin before side vision is affected.
Macular degenerationShows changes in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
Diabetic eye diseaseHelps reveal swelling in the retina (macular edema) linked to diabetes.
Other retinal conditionsHelps identify macular holes, scar-like membranes, and fluid under the retina.
Tracking Over Time

Your first scan becomes your baseline

One of OCT's biggest strengths is comparison. Your first scan creates a detailed record of your eyes. At future visits, your doctor can compare new scans to earlier ones to see whether anything has changed, and how quickly.

For patients with glaucoma or glaucoma risk factors, this helps our doctors make well-informed decisions about monitoring and treatment.

OCT may be recommended if you:

  • Have glaucoma or risk factors for it
  • Have diabetes
  • Have a family history of macular degeneration
  • Take certain medications, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), that call for regular retina checks
  • Have noticed changes in your central vision
Learn about our glaucoma care →

What to expect

  1. 1Take a seatYou'll rest your chin and forehead on a padded support in front of the OCT.
  2. 2Look at the lightFocus on a small target light for a few seconds while the scan is taken. Nothing touches your eye.
  3. 3Review the resultsYour doctor reviews the images and explains what they show, often right on the screen.
FAQ

OCT questions

Is an OCT scan safe?

Yes. OCT uses harmless light, not X-rays or radiation, and nothing touches your eye.

Does it hurt?

No. You simply rest your chin on a support and look at a target light for a few seconds while the scan is taken. There's no puff of air and nothing touches your eye.

Will my eyes need to be dilated?

Usually not for the OCT scan itself. Your doctor may recommend dilation for other parts of your exam, and we'll let you know ahead of time if that's planned.

How is OCT different from a retinal photo?

A retinal photo shows the surface of the back of the eye, like a picture from above. OCT shows a cross-section, so your doctor can see the individual layers beneath the surface and measure their thickness.

Is OCT covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your plan and the reason for the scan. When OCT is needed to diagnose or monitor a condition, it's usually billed to medical insurance. We'll let you know about any out-of-pocket cost before testing.

Curious about OCT imaging?

Call to schedule an exam and ask whether OCT is right for you. Serving Stone Oak, Hollywood Park, Hill Country Village, Shavano Park, and all of San Antonio.

Call (210) 782-8205