What Is an Optician? Everything You Need to Know

Did you know that the perfect pair of eyeglasses is the key to true comfort and confidence? If you feel unfulfilled by your current choices of eyewear, it might be time to turn to the professionals.

Opticians are trained and experienced in the art of eyewear, helping individuals discover eyewear that is functional, expressive, and aesthetic.

Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

  • An optician is an eye care professional who helps patients find the right glasses for their lifestyle and vision needs.
  • Very often, opticians work alongside optometrists. Optometrists are also eye care professionals who are licensed to give routine eye exams, treat eye conditions, and more.
  • Opticians take into account your vision, lifestyle, style, personality, and appearance to match you with glasses that help you feel good and look good.

See Related: Can Glasses Actually Make Your Vision Worse?

So, What Is an Optician?

An optician is an eye care professional who is responsible for helping patients or customers pick the right pair of corrective eyewear. Usually, opticians work alongside optometrists or ophthalmologists to provide comprehensive eye care services to individuals.

Opticians may not be medical doctors, but they are highly knowledgeable and well-versed in the art of eyewear. After all, your glasses do so much more than correct your vision!

Your glasses offer a chance for you to express yourself, communicate with the world, and enhance your style. It may seem like a tall order, but with the right pair of eyewear, it's easier than it seems to do all of that (and more).

What Is an Optometrist?

If we're talking about opticians, it's a good idea to cover optometrists, too. At Oculus Eyecare, we have an expert team of optometrists and opticians who work together to give our patients exceptional service.

From our personal styling appointments to our collection of luxury frames, every facet of our service is designed to elevate your way of life.

So, what are optometrists? Optometrists usually complete both a four-year bachelor's degree and a four-year optometry school. Optometrists can diagnose, manage, and treat conditions related to the human eye.

If you've heard of optometrists, then you might be familiar with ophthalmologists. Ophthalmologists are another type of eye doctor who can perform eye surgery.

Bonus: Photophobia (Light Sensitivity): What Is It?

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What Do Opticians Do?

Opticians play a critical role in eye care for many reasons. Opticians typically take care of the following duties:

  • Taking facial measurements. This ensures that your glasses have a comfortable fit.
  • Adjusting and fixing eyeglass frames. Again, to ensure your glasses feel comfortable and to maintain functionality.
  • Personal styling appointments. This is an incredible chance for you to find the perfect pair of glasses. Opticians will use their knowledge and expertise to ensure the glasses you pick look flattering, feel comfortable, and boost your confidence.
  • Customer and patient education. Opticians share knowledge and tips to help you feel empowered and supported in your eye care journey!
  • Frame buying and sourcing. Our opticians assist in the frame-buying process. Our collection of frames is sourced from independent designers and luxury brands to ensure that each item exhibits an unparalleled level of quality, aesthetics, and functionality.

Of course, this list is not comprehensive, and the duties of an optician can vary.

The Bottom Line

An optician is the cornerstone of functional, comfortable, and aesthetic eyewear. Whether you want to expand your collection of unique frames or purchase your first pair of glasses, it's time to take a trip to your eye clinic!

Keep Reading: How to Wear Sunglasses With Glasses

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People Also Ask

What is the difference between an optometrist and an optician?

Both optometrists and opticians have an important role in eye care, but their areas of expertise do differ.

Optometrists perform exams, provide diagnoses, and prescribe corrective lenses. On the other hand, opticians use their skills and knowledge to find, fit, and adjust corrective eyewear (like glasses or contact lenses) for individuals.

What exactly does an optician do?

Opticians have a variety of roles and responsibilities. One of their primary roles is to advise individuals on the style and type of eyewear that would best suit their needs. Opticians will then fit and adjust the eyewear to ensure comfort, functionality, and aesthetics.

How many years does it take to become an optician?

Opticians typically complete a two-year associate's degree before undergoing a two- to three-year apprenticeship, where they learn anything and everything from eye physiology to ophthalmic dispensing. Opticians must be licensed to work, just like optometrists.

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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

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