Optician vs Optometrist: What's the Difference?

Do you need a new eyewear prescription? Do you struggle with blurred vision, changes in eyesight, or digital eye strain? There are many different job titles and professionals involved in eye care. When scheduling an appointment for a prescription or a set of frames, you may wonder if you should consult with an optometrist or an optician. Choosing the right expert ensures you’ll see clearly, protect your eyes and look your best. 

In this article, we'll walk you through the difference between an optician and an optometrist, so you can take control of your vision. 

What is an Optometrist?

An optometrist is responsible for conducting annual eye exams and providing prescriptions. During an appointment with an optometrist, they will thoroughly evaluate your eye health and assess any vision problems. They can also diagnose and develop non-surgical treatment plans for eye diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive eye exams, assess eye health and evaluate eye coordination
• Provide pre- and post-operative care after surgery
• Diagnose and develop non-surgical treatment plans for eye conditions
• Prescribe glasses and contact lenses

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree
• Doctor of Optometry degree
• A residency program is required for some specialties

What is an Optician?

Once you receive a prescription from an optometrist, an optician will help fill your prescription and fit your glasses so they align with your prescription and your look. An optician is a highly trained specialist who works alongside an independent optometrist to make sure you leave with frames that look and feel right. However, they can't diagnose or treat vision problems or common eye issues.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Provide eyewear styling guidance to elevate your look
• Help patients choose glasses, frames and lenses based on their style, prescription needs and lifestyle 
• Address questions and concerns about glasses, prescriptions and brands
• Deep understanding of frame styles, lens coatings, and lens options to maximize eyesight
• Take eyeglass and sunglass measurements 
• Provide frame adjustments and repairs

Education

• Associate Degree or Bachelor's degree
• Certification from the American Board of Opticianry (optional)

What Makes an Optician Stand Out?

What truly makes an optician stand out is their ability to blend technical expertise with the individual needs of each client. At Alexander Daas, our skilled opticians are more than eyewear experts; they’re stylists who hand-select frames that elevate your look, flatter your features, and deliver exceptional vision with the best lens technology. Contact us today to experience the Alexander Daas difference. 

Ophthalmologist vs Optometrist vs Optician

A common question that also often arises is the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, and an optician. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can perform eye surgeries, treat eye diseases, and provide surgical treatment plans for eye conditions. They are required to have a Bachelor’s degree, complete medical school, and complete an ophthalmology residency.

Schedule Your Next Appointment Today

Do you need a new prescription or luxury eyewear? Schedule your next eye exam with an independent optometrist next to Alexander Daas Opticians, and our expert opticians will hand-select frames from exclusive luxury collections to suit your style. 

You can also book an eyewear styling appointment with an optician at any of our California locations or a virtual styling appointment if you are out of state. Our opticians will recommend options that complement your features, ensuring you leave with a new pair of glasses or sunglasses that accentuate your look.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should you see an optometrist?

It is recommended to have an annual eye checkup or to visit an optometrist sooner if you notice a sudden change in vision or any eye discomfort. Your optometrist will conduct a thorough examination and provide expert recommendations for treatment options.. Regular check-ins will ensure you're getting the best possible vision care.

When should you see an optician?

If you recently got a new prescription from an optometrist or want to upgrade to new frames, you'll want to consult with an optician. They'll provide eyewear styling recommendations to ensure you find a pair of glasses that complements your unique facial features. An optician can also help with measurements, repairs, and adjustments.

When should you see an Ophthalmologist instead of an optometrist?

Your optometrist will refer to the appropriate ophthalmologist if you have any special surgical needs or to further evaluate an acute or chronic medical condition. Otherwise, for your routine annual visits, red eye/pain/infections, and glasses or contact lens prescription evaluations, we recommend you see our independent optometrists.