Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) Practice Exam 2025

Who is typically responsible for grinding or duplicating lenses in an optical setting?

1. Optometrist

2. Optician

3. Ophthalmologist

4. Lab technician

The correct answer is: Optician

The role of grinding or duplicating lenses is typically performed by an optician. Opticians are skilled in fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, and they also have the expertise to fabricate the lenses according to the specifications provided by the eye care professional. This involves using various tools and machinery to shape and polish the lenses to ensure they meet the patient’s visual and aesthetic needs. While optometrists and ophthalmologists are crucial in the eye care process—performing exams and diagnosing eye conditions—they do not generally engage in the physical crafting of lenses. Lab technicians may also be involved in lens production, but they usually work under the guidance of opticians. Thus, the optician plays a pivotal role in the direct handling and modification of lenses in an optical setting.