Can LASIK Treat Farsightedness?

Hyperopia (farsightedness) is a common vision problem, affecting about one-fourth of the population. People with hyperopia can see distant objects well, but have difficulty focusing on objects that are up close. 

What Causes Farsightedness?

The eyeball of a farsighted person is shorter than normal. This causes light rays entering the eye to focus behind the retina rather than directly on it. 

Many children are born farsighted and some of them outgrow it as the eyeball lengthens with normal growth.

Farsighted people sometimes have headaches or eye strain and may squint or feel fatigued when performing work at close range. If you get these symptoms while wearing your eyeglasses or contact lenses, you may need an eye exam and a new prescription.

Treatment Options

Farsightedness can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses to change the way light rays bend into the eyes. You may need to wear your glasses or contacts all the time or only when reading, working on a computer or doing other close-up work.

Refractive surgery is a great option for correcting hyperopia. Laser vision correction surgery may reduce or eliminate your need to wear glasses or contact lenses. 

LASIK, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is the most widely performed laser vision correction surgery. With LASIK, Dr. Griffiths cuts a flap to reach the inner part of your cornea then uses a laser to remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea to give it a different shape and correct the focusing error. 

Dr. Griffiths is experienced in treating hyperopia in location. Talk to him today about your options for correcting farsightedness, so you can make the choice that is best for you and your lifestyle. Contact NewView Eye Center at 703-834-9777 or website to schedule your appointment or for more information.