WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Farsightedness (hyperopia)

Farsightedness, also called hyperopia, means that the eye cannot focus on nearby objects. This is because the eye is too short or the cornea is too flat. In some cases of hyperopia, the eye cannot focus on distant objects either. A person has hyperopia when light entering the eye is focused (called the focal point) behind the retina instead of directly on the retina.

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.