I think you might be talking about a scleral depression. This is where you're reclined back and the doctor takes a depressor to press on the sclera (white part of the eyes). It is done so he/she can get a better look at the peripheral retina. It may be a bit uncomfortable but it does not cause any harm.
In a retinal exam different lenses held close to the eye can help the doctor to get a better view of the retina. Sometimes it is not enough and other tests may be done like an OCT or flourescein (sp?) angiogram.
They eye won't pop out during an exam so don't worry!!!
If you have a pre-existing condition which can be worsened by spikes in intra-occular pressure it is definitely not OK to apply pressure to the eyes on a regular basis. High myopia is one example where rubbing the eyes or squeezing them closed forcefully is 100% not recommended as this can very much worsen the situation, especially if it is habitual (many myopes exhibit these kind of ticks!). I would imagine glaucoma is another example.
Scleral indentation, however, is a very important procedure and should be performed whenever needed. It is only done once in a while and so the risks seem very minimal.
There should have been a scleral depressor used. Nevertheless, using the thumbs to apply a bit of pressure should not cause any harm.
I too have such an incident
one doctor applied pressure using his thumb directly on bottom of eye to examine meibomian gland secretions
i am bit worried about that pressure applied,is it safe to apply pressure on eyes?
thanks
Thank you for your reply back on 4/10/09 re: question on PRESSURE FROM EYE EXAM
by Dnas1
My friend doesn't recall the use of a "scleral depression" held on the eye, just the doctors' fingers. Is it safe for one do the same thing with just their fingers to look at the peripheral retina, if this is the purpose? Thanks.
Dear Dnas1,
It is normal for a retinal specialist to exert some pressure to examine the peripheral retina if you were experience floaters and flashes of light.
Dr. Feldman
Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California