Optometry concerns the measurement of vision and the functional assessment of visual skills. The objective of the optometrist is to diagnose and restore normal vision impairments. This is achieved by the use of glasses, contact lenses, filters or low vision aids.
Demographic change with an increase in age-related eye diseases and the changing world of work, characterized by an increasing proportion of screen work and the increasing use of digital media, lead to an increasing relevance of the visual system and visual processes. All this leads to an ever-increasing demand for services in optometry.
Optometrist or Opthalmologist?
Optometrists identify and correct ametropia with appropriate optical aids such as glasses or contact lenses. Their work is also important for population health care, as they discover functional abnormalities in the eye and risk factors for common eye diseases in the context of providing visual aids.
As there are more and more elderly people with vision problems due to demographic growth, optometrists are becoming increasingly important as the first point of contact for eye and vision abnormalities. Technological progress also has an impact on optometry. Modern imaging processes and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important here.
The optometrist does not intervene in pathological examinations, does not perform operations and does not administer pharmaceutical preparations or eye drops. If during the examination any pathology is found that needs medical or surgical treatment, the case is referred to an ophthalmologist.
The pathological health of the eye is purely the subject of the ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist refers to an optometrist cases that require technical handling such as fitting contact lenses, keratoconic contact lenses or the need for low vision aids.
Optometry
According to the definition of the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO) as set out in the article of the Hellenic Academy of Optometry:
“Optometry is an autonomous profession in the field of health that requires education and is subject to certain rules, that is to say, practiced exclusively by graduates of recognized schools who have obtained a license to practice the profession. Optometrists provide primary eye and vision health care, which includes refraction (and prescription), selection and treatment of appropriate “refractive aids”, diagnosis and management of eye diseases, and restoration of vision to normal levels.”
Optometrists use their extensive expertise to achieve optimal vision for their clients based on detailed measurements.
In addition to determining visual acuity and optimal correction of glasses or contact lenses, an optometric examination can also be used to check visual field, contrast and color vision as well as twilight vision using the latest technical equipment .
The documented examination of the most important sensory organ guarantees the best possible quality of vision. Likewise, abnormalities in the eye can be recognized early and a visit to an ophthalmologist can then be recommended.
In summary, optometry checks and deals with a multitude of diagnostic tests such as:
- Visual acuity
- Refractive state
- Eye movement
- Binocularity Adjustment
- Visual fields
- Color perception
- Visual perception
- Optomotor cooperation, etc.
At “The Optical Center” stores, we provide you with a free optometric check-up on our modern special ophthalmological machines (in connection with the purchase of new glasses or contact lenses).
Our store in Mavili Square has a state-of-the-art surveying system for a detailed examination of corneal abnormalities and correct application of contact lenses.
All types of contact lenses can be fitted to the patient. New technologies and measuring techniques allow us to produce lenses with decentered optics as well as spherical, astigmatic (toric) and asymmetric lenses for each patient.
An optometric test is always provided when looking for low vision aids and purchasing multifocal glasses. Experienced opticians will help you understand what was not explained to you elsewhere. So the guarantee of good vision comes from us.
What the free optometric vision check includes
The check offered in connection with the purchase of new glasses or contact lenses is designed to define your visual requirements accurately and support the choice of an appropriate correction. The exact procedure is adapted to your age, symptoms, current correction and everyday activities.
History and daily visual needs
We discuss your current vision, screen time, driving, close work and any difficulties with your existing glasses or contact lenses.
Refraction and visual acuity
We assess visual acuity and determine the correction that may provide clearer, more comfortable vision. The findings are considered alongside the real distances at which you work and read.
Choosing an appropriate solution
Depending on the results, we discuss single-vision, progressive or occupational glasses, or suitable contact lenses. Every recommendation is explained before an order is placed.
Referral when appropriate
An optometric check for new glasses does not replace a comprehensive dilated medical eye examination. If findings or symptoms require medical investigation, assessment by an ophthalmologist is recommended.
Frequently asked questions about the vision check
Is the check really free?
It is provided free of charge in connection with the purchase of new glasses or contact lenses, subject to the current store conditions.
What should I bring?
Bring the glasses or contacts you currently use, any previous prescription and notes about the distances or activities that cause difficulty.
When do I need medical eye care?
Sudden loss of vision, eye pain, flashes, new floaters, injury or severe redness need prompt medical assessment. Regular comprehensive eye examinations remain important, especially when risk factors are present.
Prepare for a more useful vision check
Make a note of when your eyes feel strained and at which distances vision is difficult. This helps connect the measurements with your real everyday needs.
