When you get an eye exam, you may not be thinking much about this complex body part beyond the quality of your vision. However, there are many interesting facts about the eyes that not many people are aware of. 

Fascinating Facts About Eyes:

1. Second Most Complex Organ

The human eye is comprised of over two million working parts. A five-step process allows you to interpret the images seen every day. This includes 10 million different colors and 50 different objects every second. The only more complex organ is the brain.

2. Iris Has More Defining Characteristics Than a Fingerprint

If you look closely at your own eyes, you'll notice complex patterns, colors, shapes, and lines in sequences unique to you. While a fingerprint has 40 distinct characteristics, your iris has over 256. High-security law enforcement agencies like the FBI, businesses in the private sector, and airports in the United Arab Emirates use iris recognition technology for security measures. 

3. Fastest Contracting Muscle 

The average human blinks 14,000 to 19,000 times a day. This can fluctuate depending on certain conditions or exposure to bright light, like during an eye exam or after leaving a dark theater during the day. 

The orbicularis oculi is the muscle responsible for this fast, sometimes imperceptible movement. This corneal blink reflex takes less than 100 milliseconds to complete.   

4. Cornea is Nearly Identical to a Shark's

It's interesting to think humans have something in common with a widely feared ocean animal. However, human sight and eye structure are alarmingly similar to this fish. A shark's eye has a cornea, pupil, iris, lens, and retina. It's so similar to a human's that it can be used in corneal transplant surgery. 

In addition to learning about and caring for your eyes at home, it's important to get regular eye exams to ensure optimal ocular health. Allens Creek Family Optometry uses the latest technology to screen for issues like glaucoma, visual acuity, visual-motor and perceptual-cognitive deficiencies for patients of all ages in Rochester, NY, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need a routine eye exam, vision therapy, or new frames, these optometrists will help. Visit them  online to learn more about the team, or call (585) 461-6225 to schedule an appointment.