Refraction and glasses power
Refraction is the test that finds the glasses power your eyes need. It is done in two parts, one by machine and one by hand.
A machine gives a first estimate in seconds.
The final number is found by hand, with trial lenses.
Our optical shop is in the hospital.
Part one: the machine
You look at a small picture inside the auto ref-keratometer, which blurs and sharpens as it measures how your eye bends light. It prints a first estimate of your glasses power in seconds, and also measures the curvature of your cornea. Nothing touches your eye.
Part two: the lenses
The wooden case holds rows of trial lenses. The optometrist places them, one after another, in a trial frame, asking which is clearer, one or two. The answers fine-tune the machine's estimate, to the power that suits you.
Reading your prescription
Sphere (SPH)
The main power. A minus sign means short-sighted. A plus sign means long-sighted.
Cylinder and axis (CYL, AXIS)
The power for astigmatism, and the direction it lies in.
Add
Extra power for reading, needed after the early forties.
Keep reading.
Book an eye consultation.
Ask for a time, or leave your number and we will call you.
Or call 1800 210 0108, toll-free.
Quick answers.
Why are drops used for a child's test?
They relax the focusing muscle, so a child's true glasses power can be measured. Near vision stays blurred for some hours.
My glasses give me headaches. Is the power wrong?
It may be. Headaches can also come from an unseen focusing or eye-muscle problem, so have an examination.
Can I get glasses made in the hospital?
Yes. The Advanced Optical Shop is part of Netralaya.