Frequency of Refraction Checks by an Optometrist
In October 2025, I underwent an eye examination, which was fortunately covered by my insurance. Since I was looking to get contact lenses, I opted for a subsequent exam, but this time I paid for it myself. During the visit, the optometrist noted a minor adjustment in my prescription. I’m curious to know how often refraction is likely to change and whether the fee for this additional exam is justified. Male, 25 years Height: 6’1, Weight: 180 lbs Currently, I am not taking any medications.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 2:20:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're taking care of your vision with regular eye exams. Refraction, which is the test used to determine your eyeglass or contact lens prescription, can change for several reasons, including age, eye health, and lifestyle factors. Here's what you should know:
Main Points:
- Changes in your eye prescription can vary, but yearly exams are typically recommended.
- The fee for additional refraction exams can be justified, especially if there's a new prescription needed.
Explanation:
For most people, especially those under 40, refraction might not change dramatically every year. However, factors like eye strain from increased screen time or changes in your general health can lead to adjustments in your prescription. The typical recommendation is to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1 to 2 years unless you notice changes in your vision, in which case you should schedule an exam sooner.
In your case, since you're looking for contact lenses, a slight adjustment in prescription is reasonable after a short period. The additional fee you paid could reflect the specific tests needed for contact lens fitting, which often involves more detailed measurements compared to standard eyeglasses.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Your Vision: Keep an eye on how your current prescription feels in daily activities. If you notice discomfort or significant changes (like blurriness or headaches), schedule another exam sooner.
-
Regular Check-ups: Aim for a comprehensive eye exam every year or two. If your lifestyle changes significantly, such as increased screen time or changes in health, consider scheduling an earlier appointment.
-
Eye Care Tips: Practice the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help maintain your eye health.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions about your vision or eye health!
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