Italian Phrases: At the Optician

Ho bisogno di occhiali nuovi.

I need new glasses.

Say this when entering an optician's shop ('ottica') for the first time, or when your prescription has changed.

Ecco la mia prescrizione dell'oculista.

Here is my ophthalmologist's prescription.

Hand over your prescription at the optician's counter. The prescription contains your sphere, cylinder, and axis values for each eye.

Sono miope. La mia vista da lontano è scarsa.

I am short-sighted. My distance vision is poor.

Describe your vision type to the optician or ophthalmologist for appropriate lens selection.

Voglio provare le lenti a contatto.

I want to try contact lenses.

Ask at the optician when you want to try contact lenses for the first time. A fitting appointment and trial period are standard.

Ho gli occhi secchi.

I have dry eyes.

Report dry eye symptoms to an optician or ophthalmologist. Very common, especially with screen use and contact lens wear.

Cerco occhiali da sole con lenti graduate.

I am looking for prescription sunglasses.

Request prescription sunglasses at an Italian optician. Very popular in sunny Italy.

Ho gli occhi stanchi dopo il lavoro.

I have tired eyes after work.

Describe visual fatigue after computer work. The optician may recommend anti-blue-light lenses or advice on posture and breaks.

Devo fare un controllo della vista. Non vedo bene.

I need to have my eyes checked. I do not see well.

Say this when walking into an optician or scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist. The starting point for any optical visit.

Ho il glaucoma. Uso le gocce ogni giorno.

I have glaucoma. I use eye drops every day.

Inform any eye care professional of glaucoma diagnosis. Important for lens selection and understanding visual field limitations.

Voglio informazioni sull'operazione laser agli occhi.

I want information about laser eye surgery.

Ask an ophthalmologist or specialist clinic about laser refractive surgery. Often discussed with the optician as a first step.

Il mio oculista dice che ho la cataratta.

My ophthalmologist says I have a cataract.

When discussing your eye condition with an optician or when explaining why you need stronger glasses or are awaiting surgery.

Come si puliscono correttamente gli occhiali?

How do you correctly clean glasses?

Ask at any time when purchasing glasses or accessories. Proper cleaning prevents lens scratching and coating damage.

La montatura si è storta. Può aggiustarla?

The frame is bent. Can you straighten it?

Visit any optician with bent, loose, or uncomfortable frames. Minor adjustments are usually free.

Quali sono le lenti più adatte per me?

What are the most suitable lenses for me?

Ask the optician for personalised lens recommendations after your eye test. Different lifestyles need different lenses.

Ho difficoltà a vedere di notte, specialmente guidando.

I have difficulty seeing at night, especially while driving.

Report night vision problems to an optician or ophthalmologist. Night vision difficulties while driving require careful assessment.

Sono daltonico.

I am colour blind.

Inform an optician or ophthalmologist of colour blindness. Important for driving assessments and certain professions.

Posso avere lo scontrino parlante per la detrazione fiscale?

Can I have the itemised receipt for the tax deduction?

Ask at Italian opticians when purchasing prescription glasses or contact lenses. The cost is tax-deductible in Italy.

Quanto tempo ci vuole per abituarsi alle lenti progressive?

How long does it take to get used to progressive lenses?

Ask when getting your first progressive lenses. Essential to set realistic expectations for the adaptation period.

Ho perso gli occhiali. Come faccio?

I have lost my glasses. What do I do?

Urgent situation — visit an optician immediately. If you cannot see without glasses, ask for an urgent appointment.

Quando devo aggiornare la mia prescrizione?

When do I need to update my prescription?

Ask the optician or ophthalmologist how often to update your prescription. Important for maintaining optimal vision.

Grazie, è stato molto disponibile.

Thank you, you were very helpful.

Say this when leaving the optician after a purchase or consultation. Very natural and appreciated.