The December holiday season is here, bringing festive lights, winter gatherings, and plenty of photo moments. Whether you’re preparing for family celebrations or shopping for a fresh new look for the new year, clear vision matters more than ever. This is why many patients schedule their annual eye exams in December before the year ends.

But one common question always comes up around this time:
 Do you need an eye exam for glasses, a contact lens exam, or both?

At Austin Optics, we help you choose the right exam so you can enjoy sharp, comfortable vision throughout the holiday season and into the new year. Below, we break down the difference between a glasses exam and a contact lens exam and explain how to pick the one that fits your needs.

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Why Eye Exams Matter More During the Holidays

Between late-night events, winter dryness, holiday travel, and increased screen time for online shopping, your eyes may feel more strained than usual. December is also when many patients use their remaining insurance benefits before they expire.

If you’ve noticed changes in clarity, comfort, or night vision as the days grow darker, now is the perfect time to get the right type of eye exam.

Eye Exam for Glasses: What It Includes

A glasses exam is designed to update your standard prescription and check your overall eye health.

During an eye exam for glasses, your optometrist will:

  • Perform a comprehensive vision check
  • Test for near, intermediate, and distance clarity
  • Examine eye health for issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal changes
  • Determine your most accurate glasses prescription through refraction testing

Your glasses prescription typically includes sphere, cylinder, axis, and any needed reading power.

Who needs a glasses exam?

  • Patients who wear glasses only
  • Individuals who want new frames for the holiday season
  • Anyone experiencing headaches, blurred vision, or changes in clarity
  • Patients whose last exam was more than a year ago

If you plan to upgrade your eyewear for holiday photos or choose stylish new frames as a seasonal gift to yourself, a glasses exam is the right place to start.

Contact Lens Exam: What Makes It Different

A contact lens exam includes everything from a glasses exam plus extra tests needed to evaluate lenses that sit directly on your eyes.

A contact lens exam includes:

  • Corneal curvature measurements
  • Tear film evaluation to check dryness, especially common in winter
  • Trial lens fitting to ensure comfort and clarity
  • Assessment of lens movement, stability, and comfort
  • A specialized contact lens prescription
  • Optional training for new lens users

Unlike a glasses prescription, a contact vs glasses prescription will differ significantly and cannot be converted from one to the other.

Who needs a contact lens exam?

  • Patients who want to wear contacts full-time or part-time
  • Anyone planning to wear contacts for holiday events or travel
  • People experiencing dryness or discomfort with their current lenses
  • New users wanting to switch from glasses to contacts

If you want a glasses-free look for holiday photos or prefer the convenience of contacts during winter activities, this is the exam you need.

Contact vs Glasses Prescription: What’s the Difference?

Though both correct your vision, a glasses prescription and a contact lens prescription are not interchangeable.

Glasses Prescription Includes:

  • Sphere
  • Cylinder
  • Axis
  • Reading or bifocal add power

Contact Lens Prescription Includes:

  • Base curve
  • Diameter
  • Lens material and brand
  • Power
  • Replacement schedule (daily, bi-weekly, monthly)
  • Fit details that ensure corneal health

Because contacts sit on the eye, safety and fit require more extensive evaluation.

Do You Need Both Exams?

Many patients benefit from having both exams, especially during the holiday season.

You should schedule both if:

  • You wear both glasses and contacts
  • You want updated clarity for the new year
  • You need backups for travel or winter weather
  • Your last exams were more than a year ago

December is also one of the best times to refresh both prescriptions before insurance benefits reset.

Holiday Tips for Choosing Between Contacts and Glasses

Choose glasses if you:

  • Prefer easy maintenance
  • Want a stylish holiday accessory
  • Experience winter dryness

Choose contacts if you:

  • Prefer a glasses-free look at parties
  • Need a wider field of vision
  • Spend time outdoors or on winter trips

Many patients switch between both depending on the season or occasion.

Why Choose Austin Optics for Your December Eye Exam?

During the busiest season of the year, Austin Optics makes vision care simple, welcoming, and efficient. Our team delivers accurate prescriptions, personalized fittings, and honest guidance so you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision for every holiday moment.

Patients trust us for:

  • Thorough exams for glasses and contacts
  • A wide range of contact lens brands and materials
  • Stylish eyewear for holiday events
  • Transparent recommendations
  • Patient-centered care

Schedule Your Holiday Eye Exam at Austin Optics

Start the season with clearer vision and confidence. Whether you choose glasses, contacts, or both, Austin Optics is here to help you see every holiday moment clearly.

Contact Austin Optics:
 Phone: +718-261-8655
 Email: [email protected]
 Corporate Office: Austin Optics (Forest Hills, NY)

Book your appointment today at https://austinoptics.com/ and begin the holidays with fresh, clear vision.