FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Answers to some of the questions we hear most often.

Whether you're preparing for an eye examination, choosing new glasses or looking for more information about our services, we've put together answers to some of the questions we're asked most frequently.

If you can't find what you're looking for, our team is always happy to help. You can contact us directly or speak to us at either of our practices in Kilkenny or New Ross.

Eye Examinations

How often should I have an eye examination?

For most people, we recommend having an eye examination every two years. However, this may be more frequent if your optometrist identifies a concern or you have an existing eye condition.

For children, we generally recommend an eye examination every 12 months.
These are general recommendations, and you should arrange an eye examination sooner if you experience any new or worrying changes in your vision or eyes.

What happens during an eye examination?

Your eye examination is a straightforward, non-invasive process. We’ll start with a conversation about your vision, eye health and any concerns you may have, which helps us decide which extra tests are appropriate for you.

We’ll carry out a range of routine tests to assess your vision, determine your glasses prescription and check the health of your eyes. We’ll explain each part of the examination as we go, so you know what to expect.

In some cases, we may recommend using eye drops to obtain more detailed or accurate results. If this is necessary, we’ll explain why and what to expect beforehand.

How long does an eye examination take?

An eye examination typically takes between 25 and 45 minutes, depending on your age, individual requirements and whether any concerns are identified during the examination.

We allow 45 minutes for your appointment to ensure we have plenty of time to carry out the appropriate tests and discuss the results with you.

Do I need an eye examination if my vision seems fine?

Yes. Even if your vision seems perfectly fine, regular eye examinations are important for checking the health of your eyes and identifying potential problems at an early stage.

Some eye conditions can develop without noticeable symptoms, so an eye examination can detect changes that you may not be aware of. We recommend regular examinations even if you feel your vision is good.

What is the Optos Monaco Pro machine?

Our Optos Monaco Pro is an advanced imaging device that allows us to take detailed images of the inside and back of your eyes. It combines ultra-widefield retinal imaging with OCT technology, allowing us to examine both the surface of the retina and the individual layers within it.

These images can help us detect, monitor and manage changes in your eye health that may not be visible during a standard eye examination.

Do you offer children’s eye examinations?

Yes, we offer eye examinations for children. It is important for children to have their eyes assessed during their early years, while their vision is still developing.

We generally provide a full eye examination for children from around five years of age, or once they have started primary school.

For younger children, or if you have concerns about your child’s vision or eye health, we offer a triage service, either in person or over the phone. We can discuss your concerns and advise you on the most appropriate next steps.

Appointments

How do I book an eye appointment?

You can book an eye examination by calling the practice, booking online or emailing us.

If you are experiencing any urgent or worrying changes with your eyes or vision, we recommend calling us directly. This allows us to discuss your symptoms, triage your needs and arrange an appointment as soon as appropriate.

Can I book an appointment online?

Yes, you can book an eye examination online at a time that suits you. Simply use our online booking system to view the available appointments and choose a suitable time.

If you have an urgent or worrying concern about your eyes or vision, we recommend calling the practice directly so we can advise you appropriately.

Do you provide driving reports?

Yes, we provide Group 1 and Group 2 driving reports at our Kilkenny practice. Group 1 driving reports are also available at our New Ross practice.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, please bring and wear them for your appointment, as we will need to assess your vision to the required driving standard.

You do not need to bring a form with you. We will provide the completed driving report following your examination. Please note that the report is valid for 28 days from the date it is signed.

Do you provide contact lens consultations?

Yes, we provide contact lens consultations for both first-time wearers and those who have worn contact lenses previously.

Our contact lens fitting service includes guidance on inserting and removing your lenses, as well as advice on lens care and maintenance. We’ll work with you to find the most suitable lenses for your vision and lifestyle, including options for astigmatism, multifocal vision, daily or reusable lenses.

We recommend having a contact lens consultation every 12 months to ensure your lenses remain suitable and your eyes are healthy.

Can I choose which Byrne Eyecare location I visit?

Yes. You are welcome to choose whichever Byrne Eyecare location is most convenient for you. Both our New Ross and Kilkenny practices provide comprehensive eye examinations, contact lens services and eyewear consultations.

Our Kilkenny practice also offers advanced retinal imaging, using specialist equipment to provide detailed images and scans of the back of the eye. If you are experiencing significant or concerning symptoms, we may recommend attending our Kilkenny practice for this additional testing. If you are unsure which location is most suitable, please call us and we can advise you.

If you choose Kilkenny for your eye examination but live closer to New Ross, we can arrange for your glasses to be collected from our New Ross practice.

If you are visiting us specifically to choose new glasses, we recommend booking a styling consultation so that we can set aside dedicated time to help you find the right frames for you.

Can I change or cancel my appointment?

Yes. You can change or cancel your appointment online or by contacting the practice directly.

If you are unable to attend, we kindly ask that you let us know as soon as possible. This allows us to offer the appointment to someone else who may be waiting for an appointment.

If you need to rearrange your appointment, we’ll be happy to help you find another suitable time.

What should I bring to my appointment?

If you wear glasses, please bring your current glasses with you. This is particularly helpful if you are visiting us from another practice, as we can compare your current prescription with your new results.

If you are a contact lens wearer attending an appointment that includes contact lens assessment, please wear your contact lenses to the appointment, unless you have been advised otherwise.

We also ask, where possible, that you keep the number of people accompanying you to a minimum. This helps us create a calm environment and ensures you can give your full attention during the examination and any important discussions.

Glasses & Eyewear

What eyewear brands do you stock?

We offer a carefully selected range of eyewear, with a particular focus on independent and distinctive eyewear labels along with more familiar designer brands. Click explore eyewear.

Do you offer prescription sunglasses?

Yes, we offer a wide range of prescription sunglasses, including polarised lenses, graduated tints and photochromic lenses. We also offer premium, bespoke lens options from ZEISS, Essilor and Maui Jim.

If you already have a pair of sunglasses you love, we may also be able to reglaze them with your prescription, provided the frames are suitable and in good condition.

Do you provide glasses for children?

Yes, we provide children’s glasses with a range of sizes, shapes and colours to suit different ages and preferences.

We can also provide glasses through the relevant HSE-supported scheme, sometimes referred to as Community Care. Our team can explain the scheme and what is covered when you visit us. Private options are also available.

For children, we recommend booking a styling consultation. This gives you dedicated time to find the most suitable eyewear for your child, while allowing our trained staff to take the additional measurements required to ensure a comfortable and accurate fit.

Can I use my child’s Community Care prescription?

Yes. We can provide children’s glasses through the relevant HSE-supported scheme, sometimes referred to as Community Care, where applicable.

Our team can explain the scheme, what is covered and the options available when you visit us.

Can you help me choose the right frames?

Yes. We offer a personalised eyewear styling consultation for both glasses and sunglasses. We take the time to understand your style, preferences and what you’re looking for, before recommending frames that suit you.

Our expert advice considers factors such as your face shape, complexion, prescription and lifestyle, as well as the fit and overall look of the frame.

Styling consultations are appointment-led, giving you dedicated time and attention. However, you are always welcome to call in and browse our collection, and our team will be happy to help where possible.

Can you repair my glasses?

Yes. We’re always happy to take a look and will do our best to repair your existing frames where possible.

If your frames are in good condition but you need a new prescription, we may also be able to reglaze them with new prescription lenses, allowing you to continue wearing a frame you love.

Can I purchase glasses with a prescription from another Opticians?

Yes. You can purchase glasses from us using a current prescription from another Opticians.

Our team will be happy to provide the same expert advice on frame choice, fit and lens options, helping you find eyewear that suits your prescription, lifestyle and personal preferences.

Do you stock safety eyewear?

Yes. We provide a wide range of Bollé safety eyewear that complies with the relevant safety standards.

Our safety spectacles are available with a variety of prescription options, including single vision, varifocal and photochromic (Transitions) lenses, with a range of styles and configurations to suit different requirements.

Do you stock prescription sports and swimming goggles?

Yes. We offer a range of prescription sports and swimming goggles for both adults and children.

Our sports goggles include Bollé options, with a range of styles and prescription choices to suit different sporting activities. We also offer prescription swimming goggles, providing clear vision in the pool without the need to wear your everyday glasses.

Locations

Where is Byrne Eyecare in Kilkenny?

Our Kilkenny practice is located within MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, in the Workhouse Square area, between the main shopping centre and the food court. We have entrances from both the food court and the main shopping area, opposite Dunnes Stores.

MacDonagh Junction is conveniently located beside Kilkenny (MacDonagh) Train Station, making us easy to reach by public transport. There is also ample covered parking beneath the centre, with lifts and escalators providing easy access to the shopping centre.

Where is Byrne Eyecare in New Ross?

Our New Ross practice is located at 36 South Street, New Ross, within the Rising Tide Business Centre. We are located on the ground floor.

We have parking directly outside the practice, with additional parking available across the street at Maher’s Yard car park.

If you require step-free access, we have a customer lift available at the rear entrance. Please let us know in advance and we can arrange this access for you.

What are your opening hours?

Our Kilkenny practice is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 5:30pm.

Our New Ross practice is currently open most Wednesdays and Thursdays, with our phone lines open from 9:30am to 5:30pm, Monday to Saturday.

We are closed on all bank holidays.

Are Byrne Eyecare and Byrne’s Opticians in New Ross the same?

No. Byrne Eyecare and Byrne’s Opticians are separate, independently operated practices. However, we are closely connected and work together to support patients across the New Ross and wider Southeast area.

Our main practice is based in Kilkenny, while our New Ross practice allows us to provide our services to patients who are based closer to New Ross and the surrounding area. We can also provide an alternative for patients who may not be able to secure an appointment at Byrne’s Opticians, helping to provide greater access to eyecare locally.

How do I find out more about your Outreach Opticians Service?

Our outreach opticians service has been operating for a number of years, supporting people who may find it difficult to access traditional eye care services. Where requested by a facility or community organisation, we can bring our eye care service to their location, including international protection centres.

We have tailored our service to support different needs, including communication and translation requirements, portable specialist equipment and access to eyewear following an eye examination.

If you would like to find out more about our outreach service, please contact our team at info@byrneeyecare.ie or call us on 056 775 1464.

Can't find what you're looking for?

If you can't find the answer you're looking for above, please feel free to get in touch with the team. We're always happy to help.

VIEW LOCATIONS