Eye Exams Built Around You
An eye exam is about more than just updating your prescription. It’s a full-scope, preventive health appointment designed to protect your vision for the long term. From the moment you sit down with our optometrist, you’ll notice the difference.
We take time to understand your visual demands, health history, and lifestyle, so we can tailor your care with purpose. With the help of detailed diagnostic technology and personalized independent eyewear recommendations, we help you see and feel your best every day.
Contact us to book your eye exam today and experience truly customized care.
Do I Need an Eye Exam Every Year?
Yes, even if your vision feels fine. Many eye diseases develop without pain or changes in eyesight. A yearly exam helps us track small changes and intervene early if needed.
We recommend:
- Every year for adults and children
- More frequent exams if you wear contact lenses, have diabetes, or have a family history of eye disease
What to Expect During Your Eye Exam
Your exam starts with a thoughtful conversation. We’ll ask about your vision goals, screen time, health concerns, family history, and even how your eyes feel at the end of a long day. This case history helps us understand what your eyes really need and sets the stage for meaningful care.
From there, you’ll move through a complete exam that includes:
- Refraction to determine your prescription
- Binocular vision testing
- Eye muscle coordination
- Retinal and optic nerve evaluations
- Internal and external eye health checks
- Screening for digital eye strain, glare, and dryness
We also offer customized eyewear packages based on your prescription, face shape, style preferences, and daily activities. Our opticians work closely with your eye doctor’s recommendations to help you find independent eyewear that’s as functional as it is polished.
High-Definition Imaging for Early Detection
We use detailed diagnostic imaging in every eye exam to help catch problems before symptoms appear. This includes:
- OCT retinal scans: Allow us to view the layers of your retina and optic nerve in incredible detail and detect early signs of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
- Optos retinal imaging: Optos captures a widefield image of your retina in seconds, with no need for dilation and helps detect retinal tears, diabetic changes, cardiovascular risks, and more.
Eye Diseases We Screen for
During every exam, we check for early signs of:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
- Cataracts
- Keratoconus
- Retinal detachment
- Other eye and systemic health conditions
Our diagnostic imaging helps us spot subtle changes before they affect your vision. We focus on prevention, so you can enjoy clear sight for the long term.
Dry Eye Screening, Built Into Every Exam
Many people experience dry or tired eyes without realizing it’s part of a treatable condition. That’s why every exam at Ham’s includes a detailed dry eye screening.
We combine a short symptom questionnaire with tools like meibography and tear break-up time to check the quality and stability of your tear film. Even if you aren’t feeling discomfort, we look for early signs of dysfunction so we can begin care before it progresses.
If we identify dry eye disease, we’ll walk you through the next steps and discuss in-office treatments or home care options. Our goal is to keep your eyes feeling comfortable and your vision clear for the long haul.
Digital Eye Strain & Glare While Driving
Burning eyes after long days at your screen? Struggling to see clearly during night drives? These are common issues we screen for during your exam.
Digital eye strain can affect anyone, especially if your glasses aren’t optimized for your screen time. We’ll ask about your digital habits and assess how your eyes respond during near work. If needed, we can recommend solutions like computer glasses, or anti-fatigue lens designs.
If glare is making it harder to drive in low light or nighttime conditions, we can explore lens coatings and frame adjustments to help reduce distractions and sharpen your vision.
Laser Vision Surgery Co-Management
Thinking about LASIK or another form of laser vision correction? Ham’s Superior Vision Centre provides co-management for your procedure through trusted partnerships with Image Plus in Winnipeg and Herzig Eye Institute in Toronto.
We’ll handle all your pre-operative assessments, post-op care, and ongoing vision monitoring right here in Thunder Bay. Many patients experience dry eye after surgery, which we’re fully equipped to manage with in-house treatment and education.
Book Your Eye Exam Today
After your exam, we’ll help you find independent eyewear that matches your vision and your lifestyle. Whether you need a pair for work, driving, computer use, or going out, our opticians will help you build a collection that fits your life and reflects your personal style.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll be welcomed with thoughtful, tech-supported care that puts your vision first.
Contact us to book an eye exam at Ham’s Superior Vision Centre and take a proactive step toward lifelong eye health.
Fabulous Independent Eyewear from Around the World
Signature style starts here—explore independent eyewear at Ham’s. We travel the globe to find standout independent eyewear that meets our highest standards—because our patients deserve nothing less. World-class eyewear, no passport required. Ham’s brings global style straight to Thunder Bay.
Backed by 150 years of combined expertise, our opticians are here to help you find eyewear that’s as functional as it is beautiful and tailored to your lifestyle.
Our Handpicked, Independent Eyewear Brands
Two Thunder Bay Eye Clinics to Serve You
Oliver Road
We’re on Oliver Road just east of Highway 17. There’s convenient parking right out front.
- 1144 OIiver Road, Unit 1
- Thunder Bay, ON P7B 7A4
- Phone: 807-285-4790
- Email: drmckiel@shaw.ca
Hours Of Operation
Centennial Square Plaza
There’s plenty of parking in the lot we share with Family Foods in the heart of Thunder Bay.
- 124 Centennial Square
- Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3
- Phone: 807-623-2020
- Email: hamsoptical@tbaytel.net
Hours Of Operation
Oliver Road
Reviews
Centennial Square
Plaza Reviews
Specialty Services
Products
Our Locations
Centennial Square Plaza
- 124 Centennial Square
- Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3