Ophthalmologist smiles at the camera.

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor who examines and treats eye symptoms and conditions. They also perform eye surgery and specialised examinations. Our ophthalmologists are available at all Silmäasema stores.

When should I see an ophthalmologist? 

An ophthalmologist examines your eyes if you have symptoms or have been diagnosed with an eye condition. You can also make an appointment if you have a referral or wish to have your eyes examined because of symptoms, family history, a medical condition, age or concerns about your eye health.  


At Silmäasema, children under 8 always have their first eye examination with a paediatric ophthalmologist. This helps ensure healthy visual development in children, and enables early detection of any conditions.  

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What happens during the appointment? 

The ophthalmologist first asks about your general health, vision, medical history and any eye symptoms. Next, they measure your vision and eye pressure, and examine the eyes with a microscope.  


Depending on the store and individual needs, OCT structural imaging of the eye may also be performed during the appointment.  


At the end of the appointment, you will receive detailed care instructions, prescriptions and a possible referral for further eye examinations at Silmäasema’s eye hospital. 

An ophthalmologist smiles at the camera from behind a microscope in an examination room.

How do I prepare for the appointment? 

An ophthalmologist appointment usually lasts about an hour.  


Pupil-dilating drops may blur your vision for another hour after the examination. For this reason, you should not drive yourself home after the appointment. 


Prepare for the appointment: 

  • Bring your earlier prescriptions for glasses and any medical statements with you 
  • Avoid wearing contact lenses beforehand 
  • Bring sunglasses as your eyes may become sensitive to light 
  • Allow enough time for your vision to recover after the examination 


What does an ophthalmologist appointment cost? 

Appointment fees start at €148.90, including office and Kanta fees. The cost also depends on the ophthalmologist and the examinations performed during the visit.  


You can check the cost of an appointment with your nearest Silmäasema, or check individual ophthalmologists’ prices online. With the Kela card, you’ll receive the Kela reimbursement immediately on payment. 


You can make an appointment online or call 010 190 200 (mobile/local network charge). If you’re unable to attend your appointment, please cancel the appointment no later than 24 hours in advance.  


Missed appointments or late cancellations may be charged. Surgical services are charged at 50% of the price of the booked service. You may postpone or cancel surgery due to an illness or for another compelling reason. 

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Ophthalmologist services

All Silmäasema’s ophthalmologist services are offered at locations across Finland. You can book an appointment when it’s convenient for you. Our experienced ophthalmologists specialise in the following areas of eye health.

Frequently asked questions about ophthalmology services

When do I need to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist?

You should see an ophthalmologist if you notice a decrease in your vision, have eye symptoms such as pain or redness, or have a family history of eye conditions.  


People over 40 are advised to visit an ophthalmologist regularly.  


Children under 8 years old should have their first appointment with an ophthalmologist.  

What is the difference between an optician and an ophthalmologist?

An optician is an eyecare professional who performs eye examinations, and prescribes glasses and contact lenses.  


An ophthalmologist is a medical eye doctor who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions.  


If an optician suspects an eye condition or determines that medical treatment is necessary, the customer is referred to an ophthalmologist.  

How often should I see an ophthalmologist?

It is recommended that people over the age of 40 visit an ophthalmologist about every three years, especially if there’s a family history of eye conditions. Regular check-ups help detect potential eye conditions early.  

When should I seek urgent treatment?

A sudden loss of vision, severe eye pain or any other significant changes in visual acuity are always a reason to seek urgent treatment. In the following situations, please contact the general medical emergency services immediately: 

  • Severe sudden eye pain in one or both eyes and blurred vision  
  • Blurred vision in one eye or a sudden decrease in vision  
  • Sudden loss in the visual field  
  • Double vision  
  • Poor vision after drinking alcohol  
  • In the elderly, blurred vision, pain in the temples and a decline in general condition 

What if I need more eye examinations?

At Silmäasema, eye examinations are carried out with a referral from an ophthalmologist. If the ophthalmologist determines that further examinations are necessary, you can book a new appointment.  


The referring ophthalmologist will contact you regarding the test results.  

Can I wear contact lenses before the appointment?

For accurate examination results, avoid wearing soft contact lenses for 1–2 days or hard contact lenses for a week before your appointment. 

Do I have to see an ophthalmologist before purchasing glasses?

Not necessarily. An optician can perform an eye examination and prescribe glasses if your eyes are healthy.  


However, if an eye condition is suspected, or you have eye symptoms, it’s recommended that you visit an ophthalmologist.  

Can you earn Bonus with your S-Etukortti card for ophthalmologist appointments?

Ophthalmologist appointments and eye examinations don’t earn Bonus.  


Bonus is earned on optician services, product purchases such as glasses and sunglasses, contact lenses, and other eye-related supplies, as well as private eye surgery. 

Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?

An appointment can be cancelled online or by phone.  


A fee may be charged for missed appointments, or cancellations less than 24 hours before the appointment. 

Is an ophthalmologist an eye doctor?

Yes. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating eye conditions.

Book an appointment with an ophthalmologist