OPTX Optometry - Los Angeles & Valencia

How long will the eye exam take?

This should not take longer than 30 minutes assuming no extra tests or contact lens fittings are required. We endeavourer to have completed our service to you within an hour.

Something is definitely not right about my new specs - what do I do?

Perhaps you are aware that your specs are not right even after trying them for 3 weeks. Before booking a retest with the Optometrist, you should do the following:

Step One: Visit our Spectacle Collections team bringing in your new specs as well as any old specs if you feel that they seem better.
Step Two: Our team will check your new spectacles to ensure that all the measurements required are correct and as per the optometrist's specification. Any errors found will be rectified instantly, if this is possible.
Step Three: Assuming the measurements are correct, our team will then recheck your frame adjustment to ensure that they fit your face in a visually optimal way.
Step Four: At this stage you may already feel better and simply need to readapt to the new fitting. If you still feel uncertain and suspect the prescription to be at fault, then you would be advised to see your optometrist for a reassessment. It is generally better to see the same optometrist that consulted you initially, so an appointment may be required should that optometrist not be present on that day.

What is a cataract?

A Cataract refers to any cloudiness within the natural lens of the eye. Most often, this is age-related, but accelerated risk of cataract is now caused by over-exposure to ultra-violet light. This is worsened by the fact that the Ozone Layer is constantly thinning. Our advice is to take care when in the sun and always don a hat and a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. Ask your Optometrist for more information. If you develop or are developing a cataract, don't worry unnecessarily. The sky does not fall down even though it might be slightly smeary to look at. A simple operation can be performed by an ophthalmologist whereby the cataractous lens of the eye is removed and replaced by a new implant. You will probably be sent home the same day!

At the start of spring I can't wear my contact lenses comfortably as my eyes itch - why is this?

You are probably suffering from an eye allergy. Spring often brings about more sneezing and increased pollen counts along with all the daffodils. Certain susceptible individuals will experience a reaction in the eyes and an allergic conjunctivitis results. The itching is usually confined to the upper and/or lower lids and possibly the corner of the eye closest to your nose. If you wear contact lenses, the best thing to do is switch to spectacles for the duration of the allergy and buy a small supply of daily disposable lenses so that you can use them for a few hours out in the evening if you are desperate. Daily disposables would be the best lens type if your allergies are fairly chronic and you refuse to wear glasses. For relief from the itching certain anti-histamine containing drops can be bought from your local pharmacy. Most cannot be used in conjunction with contact lenses. Other types of drops can be used over a sustained period of time to strengthen the membranes of the cells that cause the symptoms of allergy. These drops have a longer-term effect and are called mast-cell stabilizers. The active ingredient is usually sodium cromoglycate. Ask your Optometrist or pharmacist for more information.

Do I still need specs if I wear contact lenses?

Yes. Many spectacle wearers are happy using their glasses but want the option of contact lenses for certain occasions. Examples include partaking in a sporting activity once or twice per week or weekend or holiday use. At OPTX, your Optometrist will help you decide on the best contact lens system to meet your requirements. Generally, daily disposable soft lenses are the best type for occasional wear as they are so easy to use. The responsibility of cleaning them is removed since they are discarded immediately after use.