Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

by David A. Wallace MD

 

Farsighted View: Better Far Than Close  
Farsighted View: Better Far Than Close
© 2002 Robert Meyers Studio.

 Farsightedness (hyperopia) is the opposite of nearsightedness. In a farsighted eye, light focuses behind the retina, so a blurry image is perceived. Farsightedness affects about 10% of the adult population.

Farsightedness correction by laser involves sculpting to steepen central corneal curvature. Glasses and contacts correct this by adding a convex lens to the optical system, whereas laser treatment works by evaporating or subtracting a concave lens-shape from the cornea.