An optical store is a shop where people can purchase eyeglasses and frames. Contrary to the belief that optical stores are full of salespeople, these stores are often staffed with professionals. And that's part of the reason there has been a rise of optometrists combining their practice with optical stores.
However, optical stores vary in terms of services, the type of professionals available, and the products they have in stock. And with numerous optical stores in Brooklyn, making a choice can be tricky.
There are several things to consider so you can make a wise decision. So, to make the process easier, discussed below are some great tips for choosing the right optical store.
Inquire About Advanced Eye Examinations
Technology has made significant advancements, especially in medicine. As a result, optical stores now offer advanced eye examinations that are more thorough compared to standard examinations. So, when looking for an optical store, ask whether they conduct up-to-date eye examinations and what it entails.
An advanced eye examination is more thorough and takes roughly an hour or twice as long as a standard exam. It includes an examination of the external eye, a full sight test, and a spectacle prescription check. An advanced eye examination may also include an optomap retinal scan and optical coherence tomography (OCT) 3D scans of the macula or optic disc.
These methods offer as much information on your eye health as possible and can detect serious eye conditions you may have developed over time.
Knowing the optical store offers comprehensive eye examinations can assure you of quality services. And in the end, you'll get accurately prescribed lenses that will correct your vision.
Consider The Type Of Staff
Whether you need to get corrective lenses or fashionable eyewear, consider choosing an optical store with the following staff:
- Optometrist: This highly qualified professional will thoroughly test your vision to determine the health of your eyes. And with the results, you'll get prescribed the right glasses or contact lenses. When looking for an optical store, find out whether the optometrist has excellent credentials and experience to detect and manage eye disorders.
- Dispensing Optician: The advantage of selecting an optical store with a dispensing optician is getting expert advice when choosing suitable frames, coatings, and lenses. Their advice is vital because they consider your lifestyle, occupation, and prescription suitability. Consequently, you'll be able to get eyeglasses that fit well and learn how to care for them.
- Support Team: This team is trained to perform different services under the supervision of an optical practice manager. Some support team members might include receptionists, optical assistants, and clinical assistants.
Examine The Products They Offer
Eyewear, whether corrective or protective, comes in different designs and functionality. Thus, it's practical to choose an optical store with a wide variety of options for frame styles and types of lenses.
For instance, a reputable optical store may offer lenses with blue light protection if your work involves staring at a computer monitor for most of the day. If you're physically active, you may need polycarbonate lenses, which are lightweight but strong enough to withstand impact.
Aside from correcting your vision, it’s essential for your eyewear to fit your lifestyle.
Look At The In-Practice Equipment
Over the years, the optical industry has seen a lot of innovations. Technology has made it possible to have accurate eye examinations. Hence, when looking for an optical store, check if they have modern devices, like an optical coherence tomographer, tonometer, and retinal imaging equipment.
This way, you can be assured of a thorough eye exam that can detect potential ocular diseases. You'll also enjoy easy and painless examinations that ensure you get the right prescription for corrective lenses.
Check Their Customized Services
As seen above, technology has eased the process of getting personalized lenses that take into account your physiology. The eye care professional will measure the following:
- Vertex Distance: This refers to the distance between the glasses and your eyes.
- Pantoscopic Angle: This measures the inclination or tilt of the glasses.
- Pupillary Distance: This measurement locates the center of your eye's rotation.
These precise measurements enable them to produce customized lenses that optimize your vision.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right optical store in Brooklyn shouldn't be challenging if you know what to look for. Consider one that offers advanced eye exams with the latest equipment and has a wide range of eyewear.
In addition, check the credentials of their eye care professionals and the customized services they provide to ensure your spectacles are the right fit for your lifestyle and physiology.