WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Farsightedness

Farsightedness, also called hyperopia, is the inability of the eye to focus on nearby objects and sometimes on distant objects as well. This occurs because the light entering the eye is focused behind the retina instead of directly on it.

Farsightedness occurs when an eye is too short lengthwise, the cornea is not curved enough, or the lens sits farther back in the eye than normal.

Eyeglasses or contact lenses are used most often to correct farsightedness. In some cases surgery can improve vision.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC
- Ophthalmology
Last Updated November 23, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 23, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.