Phoropter: An Important Tool Used By Your Optometrist

Phoropter: An Important Tool Used By Your Optometrist

You might feel like you are looking through a time machine when your optometrist moves the big piece of exam equipment in front of your face. But, the eye doctor is using the equipment to measure your vision. This tool, known as a phoropter, is an important piece of equipment that is a necessary part of your eye exam.

The History of Measuring Refractive Errors

Nathan Shigon invented a “Ski-optometer” in the early 1900’s. Around the same time, Henry DeZeng invented similar technology that he called a “Phoro-optometer.” The technology continued to advance, and the refractor was developed by Bausch and Lomb.

The phoropter that we know today was created in the 1960’s, and this technology is just as relevant as it was so many years ago. In most situations, technological advances decrease the size of the tools. But, in this case, the size got bigger as additional functions were included. The reason why a phoropter is so important is that it measures the way the eyes work together, as well as the refractive errors of the eyes.

How a Phoropter Is Used

The optometrist will put the phoropter in front of your eyes, and then make adjustments to the lenses that you are looking through. The goal is to dial in your prescription to help you see as close to 20/20 as possible. Different optical powers help the eye doctor measure the unique differences in the vision of both eyes.

You will hear the same question over and over again: “What is clearer… one or two?” This process fine-tunes your vision so that your eyeglasses or contact lenses are the right prescription to match your needs. As a result, you can enjoy clear vision every day.

Is it Time for a New Prescription?

It is normal for the eyes to change with time. Just because you have a pair of glasses, doesn’t mean that you are using the right prescription. It is important that you visit your eye doctor on a regular basis to check your vision and determine if any other treatments are needed.

In addition to updating your prescription, the optometrist also has an opportunity to identify early signs of serious eye diseases. If a diagnosis is made, then treatments can be used to protect your vision and minimize the long-term effects of the condition. Some eye diseases are irreversible. So, early detection is critical to stop the progress of the condition before it is too late.

Caring for your visual health is essential at all stages of life. So, you need to find a good Chicago optometrist that can support your vision over the years. At Village Eyecare, we provide optometry services for the whole family! Our team is working hard to offer the best glasses and designer frames, as well as the latest technology to improve your experience in the eye exam.

Do you have questions about your vision? Don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment! Village Eyecare offers four locations in the Chicago area, providing convenient solutions near your home.