Pupil dilation during an eye examination involves the temporary enlargement of the pupil, the black central part of the eye. This process is achieved through the administration of eye drops containing medication that relaxes the muscles controlling pupil size. This relaxation allows the ophthalmologist or optometrist a wider and clearer view into the inner structures of the eye.
The primary benefit of induced mydriasis (pupil dilation) is the improved visualization of the retina, optic nerve, and macula. This enhanced view enables the detection of various eye diseases and conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal detachments, often in their early stages when treatment is most effective. Historically, dilation represented a significant advancement in ophthalmological diagnostics, moving beyond simple external examination to provide detailed insights into the eye’s internal health.
