Newborn Eye Examinations, gentle checks for the youngest eyes.

Careful, gentle eye checks for newborns and infants to find problems early, when treatment can make the biggest difference.

Young child looking into an eye examination instrument held by a doctor
Gentle and quick Designed for babies
From birth Any age
15–30 min Exam time
Drops If needed
Follow-up As baby grows

Why Examine a Newborn’s Eyes?

A baby’s vision develops quickly in the first months of life. Some eye conditions present at birth, such as congenital cataract or glaucoma, need treatment very early to allow normal vision to develop.

An eye examination for a newborn checks the red reflex, the shape and size of the eyes, how the pupils react to light and, when needed, the retina.

Premature babies and babies with a family history of childhood eye conditions benefit especially from an early check.

At a glance

  • Age Newborns and infants
  • Key check Red reflex and eye health
  • Why early Vision develops in the first months
  • Higher risk Premature babies, family history

Signs to Watch For

Book an eye check if you notice:

  • White pupil

    A white or unusual reflection in photos.

  • Eyes not aligned

    An eye turning after about 3 months of age.

  • Constant watering

    Watery or sticky eyes.

  • Not following faces

    By 2–3 months, babies usually follow faces.

  • Light sensitivity

    Baby avoids light or keeps eyes closed.

  • Cloudy or large eyes

    An eye that looks hazy or bigger than the other.

When to Book

Book an eye exam if anything looks unusual about your baby’s eyes, if your baby was born premature, or if there is a family history of childhood eye disease.

A white pupil in a photo needs prompt attention. Please book an eye examination as soon as possible.

Your baby should have an eye check if

  • They were born premature or with low birth weight
  • A parent or sibling had a childhood eye condition
  • The pupil looks white or cloudy
  • An eye turns or wobbles
  • You are worried about how your baby sees

Newborn Care at Majan

Dr. Mohammed Anwar Ahmed Specialist Ophthalmologist Dr. Mohammed Anwar Ahmed 35+ years of experience Meet the team
  • Baby-friendly approach

    Calm, quick examinations with parents present.

  • Thorough examination

    Red reflex, eye movements and eye health.

  • Clear advice

    We explain findings simply and plan next steps.

  • Experienced doctor

    Care by an ophthalmologist experienced with children.

The Examination

  1. 1

    History

    Pregnancy, birth, weight and family history.

  2. 2

    Looking and following

    We watch how your baby looks at lights and faces.

  3. 3

    Eye examination

    Red reflex check and, if needed, drops to see the retina.

  4. 4

    Plan

    Reassurance, follow-up or treatment, explained to you.

After the Visit

  1. Same day

    If drops were used, pupils stay large for some hours.

  2. Follow-up

    Some babies need a review as they grow.

  3. First years

    Regular checks if a condition was found.

  4. Before school

    A full eye check for every child.

Do

  • Bring a feed for your baby
  • Note any concerns or photos
  • Bring your baby’s health records
  • Keep follow-up appointments

Avoid

  • Waiting if the pupil looks white
  • Using adult eye drops for babies
  • Ignoring a turning eye

FAQs

Yes. It is gentle and quick, and you can stay with your baby throughout.

Sometimes drops are used to see the retina. They are safe and wear off within hours.

Premature babies can develop retinopathy of prematurity, which needs regular screening.

Vision develops gradually. By around 6 months most babies see quite well.

Book your baby’s eye check

A gentle examination by our team can give you peace of mind.

Sunday to Friday · 9 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm