What is a Refraction Eye Exam?

Introduction

A refraction eye exam helps determine the correct prescription for glasses or contact lenses by measuring how your eyes focus light. It’s a routine part of eye care and is often included in a comprehensive eye exam. Understanding how a refraction exam works can help you feel more confident when updating your prescription or addressing changes in your vision.

At Petite Optique, refraction exams are available by appointment on select days as part of our in-store eye exam services in Union Square, New York.

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What Is a Refraction Eye Exam?

A refraction eye exam is a standard test used to determine the correct prescription for glasses or contact lenses. It measures how well your eyes focus light and helps identify common vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Refraction exams are a routine part of optometry and are typically performed during a comprehensive eye exam.

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What does a refraction eye exam measure?

The purpose of a refraction exam is to evaluate how light enters your eyes and focuses on the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye responsible for visual clarity.

By testing each eye individually, the exam helps determine the precise lens strength needed to provide clear, comfortable vision without blurriness or strain.

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How a refraction eye exam works

During the exam, you’ll be asked to look through a series of lenses while focusing on letters or symbols at varying distances. You may recognize this part of the exam by the familiar question: “Which is clearer — one or two?”

An optometrist uses specialized equipment, such as a phoropter or digital refractor, to compare lens strengths and fine-tune your prescription based on clarity and comfort.

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Common tests during a refraction exam

A refraction exam may include:

• Visual acuity testing
• Reading letters or symbols on an eye chart to assess how clearly you see at different distances.
• Lens comparison testing
• Comparing multiple lens options to determine which provides the sharpest vision.

These tests help establish your “best corrected vision” — how clearly you can see with the proper prescription.

How do you know if your prescription is correct?

A prescription is considered appropriate if your vision feels clear and comfortable in everyday situations. If glasses cause eye strain, headaches, or blurred vision, adjustments may be needed.

Your optometrist may recommend small refinements to ensure the prescription supports both clarity and long-term comfort.

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How long does a refraction eye exam take?

A refraction exam itself typically takes only a few minutes, though it is often part of a longer, comprehensive eye exam. The total appointment time may vary depending on your vision needs and whether additional testing is required.

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Refraction exams at Petite Optique

At Petite Optique in Union Square, refraction exams are available by appointment on select days. Our approach focuses on accuracy, comfort, and ensuring your prescription works seamlessly with your eyewear and lenses.

Following your exam, our opticians can assist with frame selection and lens options tailored to your vision and lifestyle.

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Final thoughts

A refraction eye exam is an essential step in achieving clear, comfortable vision. Whether you’re updating your prescription or experiencing changes in eyesight, understanding how the exam works can help you feel more confident and prepared.

If you have questions about eye exams or eyewear services, our team is happy to help.

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