Eye Exam in Kailua, Hawaii

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Out to See

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It Has Been a While Since Your Last Eye Exam

If you are reading this, there is a good chance it has been longer than you would like to admit since your last eye exam. You are not alone. Life in Kailua keeps you busy — between work, kids, weekends at the beach, and everything in between, getting your eyes checked falls to the bottom of the list. But here is the thing: a comprehensive eye exam is one of the most important health appointments you can make, and at Out to See Vision, we have made the experience easier and more thorough than you might expect.

Whether you are a new patient or just new to Kailua, here is exactly what happens when you walk through our door at 573 Kailua Road for your first eye exam.

Step 1: Your Intake Form and Health History

Before arrival, you will receive a digital health history form that covers your current medications, any eye conditions in your family, your daily screen time habits, and what you are hoping to get out of your visit. This is not just paperwork for the sake of paperwork. Dr. Lauren Mordue reviews this information before your exam begins because your overall health history directly affects your eye health.

For example, conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune disorders often show early warning signs in the eyes. Knowing your history helps Dr. Mordue look for the right things during your exam.

Step 2: Digital Refraction — How Out to See Does It Differently

The part most people think of when they hear "eye exam" is the refraction — the process of determining your prescription. At Out to See, we use advanced digital refraction technology that gives us a more precise measurement of your vision than the traditional manual method alone.

You will still look through lenses and tell us which option looks clearer, but the digital system gives Dr. Mordue a detailed starting point so the process is faster and the result is more accurate. This is especially helpful for patients with complex prescriptions, astigmatism, or anyone who has never felt quite right in their current glasses.

Step 3: Full Eye Health Scan — What We Are Checking For

This is the part of the exam that most people do not realize is happening, and it is arguably the most important. Beyond your prescription, Dr. Mordue performs a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health using advanced imaging and diagnostic tools.

We are screening for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, retinal abnormalities, dry eye, and signs of systemic health conditions. Many of these issues develop slowly and without symptoms. A routine eye exam is often the first time they are detected, which is why annual exams matter even if your vision feels fine.

Step 4: Discussing Your Prescription and Lifestyle Needs

Once your exam is complete, Dr. Mordue sits down with you to review everything. She does not just hand you a prescription and send you on your way. She explains what your numbers mean, how your eyes have changed (if they have), and what you should be aware of going forward.

This is also where the conversation gets personal. Are you staring at screens for eight hours a day? Surfing every weekend? Driving a lot at night? Your lifestyle shapes the lens recommendations Dr. Mordue makes, from lens designs for office workers to polarized prescription sunglasses for anyone who spends time on the water. The right prescription is only useful if the lenses match how you actually live.

Step 5: Exploring Our Curated Eyewear Boutique

If you need new glasses or sunglasses, this is the fun part. Out to See Vision is not just an optometry practice — it is an eyewear boutique. Our selection includes designer frames from Lindberg, Mykita, Krewe, Face a Face, Tom Ford, Maui Jim, Etnia, and independent brands you will not find anywhere else in Kailua.

Dr. Mordue and her team personally curate every frame on the wall, so the selection is intentional. Whether you want something classic, something bold, or prescription sunglasses built for the Hawaii lifestyle, the team will help you find the right fit for your face, your prescription, and your style.

How Long Does an Eye Exam Take?

A comprehensive eye exam at Out to See typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your needs. If you are also shopping for eyewear, plan for about an hour total. If you wear contact lenses, bring your current box or know your brand and prescription. If you have a current pair of glasses, bring those too. And if you have vision insurance information, have it ready so the team can review your coverage and/or benefits before your appointment begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should adults get eye exams?

The American Optometric Association recommends a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years for adults with healthy eyes and no glasses correction. Annual exams for anyone over 60 or with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease. 

How often should children get eye exams?

Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months, another at age three, and then before starting school. After that, annual exams are recommended, especially during the school years when vision problems can directly affect learning. 

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring your current glasses and contact lenses, your vision insurance card (if applicable), and any questions you have about your eyes or vision.

Can I get my eye exam and buy glasses at the same place?

Yes. Out to See Vision is a full-service practice. You can get your exam, choose your frames, and have your lenses made all in one place. The team handles everything from fitting to ordering to adjustments. Purchasing your lenses at Out to See ensures that recommendations from your visit with Dr. Mordue are carried out in your final eyeglasses. 

Does Out to See offer same-day appointments?

Same-day appointments are often available depending on the schedule. Call (808) 501-2020 or book online at outtoseevision.com to check availability.

Ready to Book Your Eye Exam in Kailua?

Scheduling is easy. Book online at outtoseevision.com, call us at (808) 501-2020, or stop by the practice at 573 Kailua Road, Suite 106. We are right in the heart of Kailua Town, and new patients are always welcome. Your eyes have been waiting long enough.