The procedure is typically performed using an ophthalmoscope, a handheld device with a light source and lenses. Here are the general steps:
The room is dimmed to allow the pupil to dilate. Eye drops may be used to further dilate the pupil. The healthcare provider uses the ophthalmoscope to shine a light into the eye and examine the back of the eye.
During the examination, the provider may ask the patient to look in different directions to get a comprehensive view of the retina and other structures.