Optician

An optician is a qualified eye care professional who specialises in testing your eyesight and advising on, prescribing and fitting spectacles and contact lenses. In the Netherlands, opticians undertake vocational training (MBO) or higher vocational education (HBO), during which they learn how the eye works, how to measure refractive errors and how to determine the correct correction.

The optician carries out an eye test, also known as a refraction test, to determine the correct prescription you need. During this test, the optician assesses your visual acuity and checks whether you are short-sighted, long-sighted or have astigmatism. An optician can also screen your eyes for signs that may indicate an eye condition, and refer you to an optometrist or ophthalmologist for further examination.

As well as fitting glasses and contact lenses, an optician advises you on the right type of glasses or contact lenses for your situation, and on the maintenance and care of your lenses. With contact lenses, the optician checks that the lens fits your eye properly and that your cornea remains healthy.

What does an optician do?

An optician measures your eyes, determines the correct prescription for spectacles or contact lenses, and fits the spectacles or lenses. They also provide instructions on how to insert and remove contact lenses and on how to care for them properly. Many opticians offer a follow-up appointment to check that the lenses are still fitting properly and that your eyes are healthy.

The difference between an optician and an optometrist

An optician has completed a vocational or higher vocational qualification and is authorised to carry out eye tests and fit spectacles and contact lenses. An optometrist has completed a higher vocational or university degree and is authorised to carry out more comprehensive eye examinations, for example using equipment to assess eye pressure or the retina. In practice, opticians and optometrists often work together in the same shop or practice.

When should you visit an optician?

You should visit an optician if you notice your vision is becoming less clear, if you get headaches when working at a computer screen, or if you need new glasses or contact lenses. You can also visit an optician for a lens check-up or if you have any questions about comfort or aftercare. If you experience symptoms such as pain, redness, flashes of light or sudden loss of vision, the optician will refer you to an ophthalmologist.

Opticians and contact lenses

When it comes to contact lenses, the optician not only measures your prescription but also the curvature of your cornea and the size of your pupil. This is necessary to find a lens that fits well and is comfortable to wear. The optician will teach you how to safely insert and remove the lenses and which lens solution is suitable for your type of lens. At SMEYEL , you’ll find a wide range of contact lenses and lens solutions which you can order following advice from your optician.