FAQs

How often should I get my eyes tested?

Generally we would recommend a sight test once every two years for adults aged 19-70. Any patient who is closely related to a family member who suffers Glaucoma or has the condition themselves are advised to have yearly tests. Patients who have Diabetes are also advised a yearly test. Children are generally tested yearly but this may be reduced to every six months depending on their prescription.

How long does a sight test usually take?

A sight test usually lasts between 20mins and half an hour, if any other exploratory tests need to be carried out, this time may vary.

Can I be fitted with contact lenses?

Although not everyone is suitable for contact lenses, we will endeavour to find the most appropriate one for you. We fit a full range of all types of contact lenses so as to be able to fit you with the most appropriate lens available. These may include daily, weekly or monthly disposable lenses, extended wear lenses, where they may be worn for up to 30 days continuously or gas permeable contact lenses. Coloured lenses may also be an option to change your eye colour.

Do I need to pre-book an appointment?

We usually work by appointment only but do try to keep some appointments free so we can accommodate patients who require urgent treatment.

What designer frames do you supply?

We have a wide range of designer eyewear such as, Gucci , Christian Dior, Miss Sixty, Police, Armani, Oasis, Dolce and Gabbana, D + G, Replay and Morgan to name a few, but also the more exclusive optical designers, Prodesign (a Danish spectacle manufacturer) and Face a Face a specialist French company and many others too numerous to list.

What designer sunglass frames do you supply?

We stock a large selection of designer sunglass frames such as, Gucci, Christian Dior, Guess, Miss Sixty, Burberry, Joop, D + G, Diesel and Ralph Lauren.

What price do your contact lenses range from?

Prices for contact lenses range from £14 per month to £45 per month depending not only on the type of lens required for your prescription, but also depending on how you wish to wear your lenses. For example you may only wish to wear your lenses for special occasions, on this basis a daily lens may be the best choice for you. The type of lens required will be discussed in detail with Mr Fitzsimons during your contact lens fit appointment.

What price do your spectacle lenses and frames range from?

We have a wide range of spectacle lenses to suit many prescriptions. They range from £46 for single vision lenses, £76 for bifocal lenses and £119 for varifocal lenses. Our spectacle frames range from £29. Designer frames range from £79.

Can I get my glasses on the day of my sight test?

Many spectacles can be supplied on the day of your sight test, depending on the type of lens and prescription, as we have an on site glazing laboratory.

I am receiving benefits, does that mean I get my eyes tested for free?

The Health Service will cover the cost of your sight test once every two years if you are in receipt of benefits such as Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance (income based), Tax Credits, Pension Guarantee Credit or a HC2 form. This may be reduced to a yearly test if you also suffer from Glaucoma or Diabetes.

Will I also get my glasses for free if I am on benefits?

We offer the complete range of NHS services with spectacles at no charge for people on a wide range of benefits.

At what age should I get my child's eyes tested?

If there is a family history of longsightedness or a squint or a lazy eye, they should be checked by the age of two. If there is no history of any of these conditions then a pre-school check is advised.

I have just got new glasses, what can I do if I am having difficulties?

Should you be having difficulties with your new spectacles, contact the practice and we will be happy to advise a time which would be best suited to call and see Mr Fitzsimons to get any problems resolved.

Do I require an appointment for any adjustments I may need to my glasses?

No appointment is necessary to have your glasses adjusted as any member of our staff are fully trained to deal with most adjustments. On the odd occasion you may have to wait to see Mr Fitzsimons, which is normally no longer than 5 - 10 mins, for slightly more complicated adjustments such as rimless frames etc.

Do you have wheelchair access?

Yes, we have wheelchair access at the rear of the building. You will need to call in advance to ensure that access is set up and ready for your arrival.

What does a typical visit to the practice entail?

Deal with our receptionist who will check all relevant details to ensure our records are completely up to date.
Have a short wait where you can browse and try on some of the many frames or sit and read a magazine.
You will then be passed over to Mr Fitzsimons for your eye test.
After your test you will be allocated to a member of staff to help you choose from our large range of frames. We at this time will discuss lenses which are most suited to you and also any recommendations that Mr Fitzsimons has also mentioned during your eye test.
We will then take any relevant measurements required and give you a price for the overall cost of your glasses.
When you collect your glasses they will be fitted to ensure they are comfortable. Your vision will be checked and finally we will clean your new glasses and provide you with a case and cleaning materials.

Fitzsimons Opticians

Make an appointment, call - 028 2564 0582

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