Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

August 18, 1999
Web posted at: 12:10 PM EDT (1610 GMT)

In this story: Description Risk Symptoms Treatment Prevention RELATEDS

From WebMD

DESCRIPTION

Hyperopia is also called farsightedness. When the eye looks at an object, light waves pass through the cornea to reach the lens. The lens bends the waves and focuses them on the retina, which lines the back of the eyeball. Hyperopia occurs when the distance from the front to the back of the eyeball is too short. A cornea that is too flat can contribute to the problem. These conditions cause the lens to focus the image at a point behind the retina. As a result, the light coming through the lens forms a disk shape on the retina, rather than a fine point, thus making the image appear blurry.

RISK

Hyperopia is usually an inherited condition. A person whose mother or father is farsighted is at greater risk.

SYMPTOMS

It is necessary to have a comprehensive eye exam to accurately diagnose the condition.

TREATMENT

Corrective prescription lenses may be needed for reading, sewing and other close work. They would not be needed for driving or other activities involving distance vision.

Although refractive eye surgery to correct nearsightedness has been successfully performed for several years, it is only recently that techniques have been developed to address hyperopia. These procedures involve increasing the curve of the cornea so that the viewed image focuses directly on the retina rather than behind it.

One technique, called laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), is currently used to correct low-to-moderate hyperopia. This procedure begins by cutting a hinged flap in the surface of the cornea. Then a laser is used to remove a portion of tissue on the sides of the cornea, creating a steeper curve. Afterward, the flap is replaced, and the cornea heals without stitches. A similar procedure is called automated lamellar keratoplasty (ALK). This surgery, however, uses a specialized cutting instrument rather than a laser to adjust the slope of the cornea.

The results of refractive surgery in the treatment of hyperopia are less predictable than in other eye conditions. The length of time it takes to recover full vision after the operation is longer. Also, the outcome of the surgery is often not as satisfactory as it is with myopia.

PREVENTION

Since the tendency toward hyperopia is inherited, it can't be prevented.

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