The applanation tonometer is an important instrument used during eye exams to measure the pressure inside your eyes.

Elevated eye pressure is the main risk factor for developing glaucoma, an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and causes vision loss.

The tonometer gently flattens a small area of the cornea to assess the pressure inside the eye. It is a quick, easy, and painless test.

During the test, the ophthalmologist or optometrist will apply anesthetic eye drops to numb the surface of the eye. You may feel a slight momentary touch on the cornea as the tonometer probes make contact with the eye.

The tonometer readings help determine the intraocular pressure. Normal range is between 10-21 mmHg. Higher readings may indicate risks of glaucoma.

After the test, your vision may be slightly blurry for a few minutes. Some patients experience a mild headache afterwards.

It is important to monitor eye pressure regularly through tonometry, especially if you have glaucoma risks and are aged over 40 years. High eye pressure has no symptoms, so getting tested is crucial.

Applanation tonometry is a key tool allowing our eye doctors to evaluate glaucoma risks and preserve your vision health.