When I had my eye surgery, that is when I rebelled and refused to let them put eye drops in. They took me to a machine that allowed them to see into my eyes without the drops. Of course you have to remember, this was in a very large hospital that can afford these expensive machines.
But if you have glaucoma, then follow the doctors wishes. My eye problem, if you remember, was cataracts. Once I had the surgery, I was fine. My biggest concern now is the diabetes. If I suspect for just one instant that it is affecting my vision, I will be on the phone for an emergency visit.
The student doctor that was looking after me after the surgery, had to have someone show her how to use the machine. She knew of its existence, but didn't know if she was going to be allowed to let me be the first one for it to be used on. They were very reluctant to allow me to refuse drops. Once I stood up and reached for my coat, that is when they changed their minds.
They also have the machine now at the doctors office where I go locally. But you have to remember my doctor treats hundreds of elderly patients. He has the contract for my health plan. My doctor is an ophthalmologist instead of an optometrist. And his office is a teaching office. He has students from the hospital that I go to learning and working in his office.
The problem with using a light to see into and the back of your eyes is that once light hits the pupils, the pupils get smaller and it is more difficult for the doctor to see in there. That is why they give you the drops.