First Eye Exam? We Break Down What Happens Step-by-Step

Aug 1, 2025 | Eye Exams

If you’re preparing for your first eye exam or scheduling one for your child, it’s normal to have questions. What will the eye doctor do? Will it hurt? How long does it take? 

At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we ensure your comprehensive eye exam in Nashville is a stress-free and comfortable experience. Whether you’re noticing vision changes, need a new prescription, or just want to keep your eyes healthy, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Here’s what to expect when you come in for your first eye exam. 

Step 1: A warm welcome and a patient history 

Your visit starts at the front desk, where our team will help you check in an/comprehensive-eye-exam/d review your patient forms. We’re happy to answer your questions and walk you through the forms if necessary. 

We’ll ask about your vision history, medical background, current medications, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. This helps us personalize your care and look for any signs of underlying issues. 

Step 2: The comprehensive eye exam 

During your comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist will perform a variety of tests to evaluate your vision and overall eye health. These may include: 

  • Visual acuity testing (reading the eye chart) 
  • An eye pressure measurement to screen for glaucoma 
  • Peripheral vision screening 
  • Color vision and depth perception tests 
  • Optomap® digital retinal imaging to get an ultra-wide view of the back of your eye (the only technology that captures 82% of the retina in a single shot!) 
  • Refraction testing to fine-tune your prescription if needed 
  • Eye movement and focusing assessments 
  • A slit lamp examination to check the front of the eye 
  • A dilated eye exam (if needed) to examine the retina and optic nerve 

Each test provides important information about how your eyes are functioning and helps us detect any early signs of eye conditions, even before symptoms appear. The exam is thorough, comfortable, and personalized to your needs. 

Step 3: Review and recommendations 

After the exam, our experienced optometrist, Dr. Nicole Lemoncelli, will explain your results and answer any questions. If you need corrective lenses, we’ll give you an updated prescription. We may also recommend follow-up care, specialty lenses, or lifestyle tips to keep your eyes healthy. 

Step 4: Eyewear and next steps 

If you need glasses or contact lenses, our optician will help you choose the perfect fit and style from our wide selection of eyewear. At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we offer quality frames and lenses to suit every personality and budget. 

Before you leave, we’ll have you schedule follow-up visits as needed and provide any additional instructions. 

Why choose Lemoncelli Eyecare? 

At Lemoncelli Eyecare, we combine personalized, compassionate care with the latest eye care technology to provide thorough and accurate exams. We proudly offer comprehensive eye exams for adults and seniors as well as children’s eye exams for kids ages five and up, so your whole family can enjoy clear, healthy vision. 

Our convenient location on Charlotte Ave., close to Ascension St. Thomas Hospital Midtown and Vanderbilt University, makes scheduling and attending appointments easy. With a focus on comfort and individualized attention, we’re dedicated to making every visit a positive experience tailored just for you. 

Ready to schedule an eye exam? 

If you’ve been putting off your first eye exam, there’s no better time to prioritize your eye health. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Lemoncelli Eyecare and experience personalized, thorough care in a welcoming environment.