Eye ultrasound
ocular ultrasound · eye ultrasound · B-scan of the eye · ophthalmic ultrasound
The doctor looks at the inside of the eye and the eye socket with ultrasound, through your closed eyelid.
When the doctor cannot see the back of the eye, for example with a cloudy lens or bleeding inside the eye, and for injuries, a suspected detached retina, or growths in the eye.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 20 minutes; the report is usually ready right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Preparation. Usually none. You can eat and drink.
- Eyes. Take out contact lenses. It is better to come without eye makeup.
- Getting home. If your pupils will be widened with drops, it is better not to drive afterward. Check with the clinic.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past eye doctor reports
- A contact lens case
- Sunglasses
How it goes
- You sit or lie down with your eyes closed
- Gel is put on your eyelid
- The probe is placed gently on your closed eyelid
- The doctor asks you to look up, down, right, and left
- The gel is wiped off
What you'll feel
- Cool gel and a light touch
- The gel may sting a little if it gets into your eye. It will be rinsed out
Afterwards
- You can go back to your day right away
- The report is usually ready right away. Your eye doctor decides the next steps
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Sudden flashes, many new floaters, or a shadow in your vision: see an eye doctor right away
- A sudden drop in vision or severe eye pain: see a doctor urgently or call emergency services
Common questions
Can this harm my eye?
No. The probe touches the eyelid gently, and ultrasound is safe for the eye.
Do I need to open my eye during the scan?
No. It is done through your closed eyelid. You just move your eyes when the doctor asks.