What’s the Difference Between an Optometrist and an Optician?

Original blog is available in parhamoptical.ca/blogs

When it comes to eye care, many people use the terms optometrist and optician interchangeably—but they actually play very different roles in helping you see clearly. If you live in Aurora, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, or King City, and you’re planning to visit Parham Optical, it’s helpful to understand who does what before booking your appointment.

Let’s break it down so you can feel confident about your next eye care visit—and get the most from your experience.

Who Is an Optometrist?

An optometrist is a licensed healthcare professional who is trained to examine, diagnose, and treat a wide range of eye conditions and visual issues. They hold a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and must complete years of post-secondary education and clinical training.

What Optometrists Do:

Perform comprehensive eye exams

Diagnose and manage eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration

Prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses

Detect early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, and other health issues through the eyes

Provide referrals to ophthalmologists (eye surgeons) if needed

At Parham Optical, our in-house optometrists offer full-service eye exams for adults, seniors, and children from Aurora to Richmond Hill.

When to See an Optometrist:

Blurry vision

Eye strain or headaches

Dry, itchy, or red eyes

Trouble seeing at night or focusing

Annual eye health check-ups

If you need a new prescription

Who Is an Optician?

An optician is a trained technician who helps you find the right eyewear based on your optometrist’s prescription. They don’t perform eye exams or diagnose medical conditions, but they are experts in lens fitting, eyeglass adjustments, and eyewear recommendations.

What Opticians Do:

Help you choose frames that fit your face, style, and lifestyle

Take accurate measurements of your face and pupils

Fit, adjust, and repair eyeglasses and sunglasses

Explain lens options like progressives, blue light filters, or anti-glare coatings

Guide you in selecting the best lenses for your needs

Our licensed opticians at Parham Optical serve residents of Newmarket, Aurora, and King City with expert advice on both vision and fashion. From designer frames to kids’ glasses, they ensure your eyewear feels as good as it looks.

When to See an Optician:

After getting a new prescription

If your glasses feel loose or tight

To explore new frame styles or lens options

For repairs or replacements

For professional advice on glasses that suit your lifestyle (e.g. office work, driving, sports)

Summary: Optometrist vs. Optician

Feature Optometrist Optician

Performs Eye Exams ✅ Yes ❌ No

Diagnoses Eye Diseases ✅ Yes ❌ No

Prescribes Glasses or Lenses ✅ Yes ❌ No (uses optometrist’s Rx)

Helps Choose Frames/Lenses ❌ No (but may give advice) ✅ Yes

Adjusts and Fits Eyewear ❌ No ✅ Yes

Education Doctor of Optometry (OD) Diploma or certificate in opticianry

Do You Need to See Both?

Yes—and that’s why Parham Optical is your one-stop destination for complete vision care. You’ll first see our optometrist for a comprehensive exam. Once your prescription is ready, our opticians step in to help you find the perfect frames and lenses that fit your lifestyle—whether you’re in Aurora, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, or King City.

Why This Matters in Aurora & Nearby Communities

With so many choices in York Region, it’s important to know what kind of eye care professional to seek out. At Parham Optical, our team of optometrists and opticians work together under one roof to offer a seamless experience from eye exam to eyewear fitting. Whether you’re coming from Newmarket for your annual check-up or from Richmond Hill for new lenses, you can trust our team to take care of your vision, start to finish.

Your Eyes Deserve Expert Care—Start with Parham Optical

No matter where you are in your eye care journey, knowing the difference between an optometrist and an optician helps you make informed decisions. At Parham Optical, we bring together both professionals so your visit is simple, efficient, and personalized.

✅ Book Your Appointment Today

Call or visit ParhamOptical.ca to schedule your comprehensive eye exam or drop in to explore our latest eyewear collections. We proudly serve Aurora, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, and King City with friendly, knowledgeable, and licensed professionals.