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Your First Visit to Active Eyes Optometry: What to Expect

AdobeStock 143854428 Your First Visit BlogVisiting the optometrist should be a smooth and stress-free experience, and at Active Eyes Optometry in Surrey, BC, we strive to make every step of the process easy and efficient.

Whether it’s your first visit or a routine check-up, knowing what to expect can help you feel prepared and comfortable.

How to Get to Active Eyes Optometry

Located at a visible and convenient spot near 72nd Avenue and 152 Street, our practice is easy to find. Whether you’re driving, taking public transit, or walking, you’ll have no trouble getting here.

Parking is available for those arriving by car and for those using public transit, a bus stop is located right next to 152 Street.

Preparing for Your Eye Appointment

Before heading to your appointment, be sure to bring any necessary documentation. First-time patients should arrive a few minutes early to complete any required paperwork and should bring their insurance information, including their BC Care Card or Personal Health Number.

For some patients—such as seniors, children, or those with diabetes—coverage may be available through BC’s public health system. If your Care Card details are attached to your driver's license, simply presenting your license will be sufficient.

What Happens During Your Visit at the Optometrist?

Upon arrival, you’ll check in with our front desk team, who will confirm your details and insurance information. Once you're set, you’ll move on to pre-testing. This step is quick—typically lasting less than five minutes—and helps our team gather important baseline information about your vision.

If you’re bringing a child for an exam, their pre-testing may take just a few seconds, while older patients who need assistance getting seated may take a little longer.

Once pre-testing is complete, you'll be asked to wait briefly until an exam room is ready. If the optometrist is still finishing up with another patient, you’ll have a short break before being called in for your comprehensive eye exam.

The Eye Exam: What to Expect

Once called in, you’ll meet with the optometrist, who will review your pre-test results and discuss any concerns you may have about your vision or eye health.

The exam itself involves a series of tests to assess your eyesight, check for conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, and determine if you need a new prescription. This process is thorough but efficient, ensuring you receive a complete evaluation without unnecessary delays.

For those who wear glasses or contact lenses, this is also the time to update your prescription. If you’re interested in switching from glasses to contacts, or vice versa, let your optometrist know—they can guide you through your options.

Choosing Eyewear or Ordering Contacts

If your exam results indicate that you need glasses or contact lenses, the next step is selecting the right pair for you. Our in-house optical team can help you choose from a variety of stylish frames that fit your look, lifestyle, and prescription needs.

For those who need contact lenses, orders typically arrive within three business days. If you wear glasses and need new lenses, your order will be processed and sent to the lab. Standard turnaround time for glasses is about five to seven business days. If you’ve selected a frame from our display, we’ll fit your lenses into your chosen style as soon as they arrive.

After Your Appointment: Next Steps

Once your visit is complete, we’ll ensure you have everything you need, from updated prescriptions to information about follow-up care. If you’re waiting for glasses or contacts to arrive, we’ll notify you as soon as they’re ready for pickup.

We also recommend scheduling your next appointment before you leave—whether it’s your next annual check-up or a follow-up visit for specific concerns. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining clear vision and detecting any potential eye health issues early.

Schedule an Eye Exam in Surrey, BC

At Active Eyes Optometry, our goal is to make eye care as convenient and comfortable as possible. Whether you're visiting us for the first time or returning for routine care, we’re here to provide expert guidance and friendly service every step of the way.

Call us to request an appointment!