Which eye specialist should you consult before the new school year?

Uncorrected vision can affect your child’s concentration, posture, and school performance. But which eye specialist should you see for a complete eye exam?

Here are the eye specialists to consult before the new school year!

Consulting an ophthalmologist before the new school year

For most common vision problems, the first step is to consult an ophthalmologist.

 

This medical eye specialist is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of ocular conditions, including more serious disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration (AMD).

 

During an ophthalmology consultation, the ophthalmologist performs a complete eye exam, including functional tests such as visual acuity assessment, visual field testing, and optic nerve evaluation.

 

If your child has symptoms such as frequent headaches, eye strain, or difficulty concentrating, an appointment with an ophthalmologist is highly recommended before the new school year.

 

The ophthalmologist may prescribe glasses or contact lenses tailored to your child’s needs.

Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger, paediatric ophthalmologist COP9

Pediatric ophthalmologist: the reference for children

Before the new school year, an ophthalmology consultation is highly recommended, especially if your child experiences headaches, frequent blinking, or loss of focus.

Pediatric ophthalmologists are specifically trained to manage children’s eye conditions, taking into account developmental factors and the unique aspects of childhood vision.

This is one of Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger’s specialties!

The pediatric ophthalmologist performs a comprehensive eye exam from an early age to detect visual issues such as myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia, strabismus, or amblyopia.

This ensures not only early detection of potential disorders but also the right support for your child’s vision throughout the school year.

The pediatric ophthalmologist can also prescribe the right optical correction and coordinate follow-up care if needed.

In short: to prepare your child for the new school year, book a pediatric ophthalmology appointment for a full eye check-up!

Make sure to book your ophthalmology appointment before the new school year, monday to friday at COP9, to guarantee quick and efficient care for your child’s eye health.

Why consult an orthoptist before the new school year?

An orthoptist works alongside the ophthalmologist to assess and rehabilitate vision.

They perform orthoptic evaluations to analyze eye movements, binocular vision, and convergence.

Orthoptic therapy is particularly useful for children who tire quickly when reading or feel discomfort in front of screens. 

It improves visual comfort and concentration in class.

In cases of strabismus or amblyopia, orthoptic therapy (vision therapy) may be recommended to improve visual functions and restore proper eye alignment in children, before the new school year.

Our COP9 orthoptists

Contact lenses: should you check before the new school year?

Many children and teenagers wear contact lenses, often for sports or in cases of high myopia.

Our contact lens specialist (contactologist) ensures lenses are well-adapted, comfortable, and safe for daily use.

A contact lens consultation before the school year is recommended to make sure your child’s lenses are properly fitted and safe for everyday wear at school.

Neuro-ophthalmology: when should you consult before the new school year ?

If your child presents with blurred vision, visual field loss, persistent eye strain, or suspected neurological issues, a consultation in neuro-ophthalmology may be necessary.

This subspecialty, combining ophthalmology and neurology, allows specialists to diagnose complex conditions affecting the optic nerve or brain.

For children with vision problems related to neurological issues, a neuro-ophthalmologist may be involved.

In some cases, additional eye tests, such as retinal angiography, may be required to ensure a precise diagnosis.

Booking an eye exam before the new school year allows for proper follow-up and helps anticipate possible needs for vision therapy or academic accommodations.

And in case of emergency ?

For urgent or complex conditions such as retinal detachment or retinal degeneration, you will be referred to a hospital ophthalmology department or university hospital (CHU).

These hospital ophthalmology centers are equipped with advanced technology for surgical procedures, including laser eye surgery and cataract surgery.

Do not delay: if your child shows sudden vision symptoms, book an emergency ophthalmology appointment before the new school year to protect their eye health and ensure a successful school year.

In conclusion

Before going back to school, consulting an eye specialist means anticipating for better learning.


Vision problems can affect not only school performance but also your child’s overall development.


Make sure your child’s vision is optimal to start the school year in the best conditions.

 

Book your eye exam early with a specialist ophthalmologist for a stress-free back-to-school season!

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