Overcoming Hyperopia – The Solution to Long-sightedness
Hyperopia – better known as far- or long-sightedness – is one of the most common refractive errors, alongside myopia (short-sightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (ageing eyes). Estimates suggest that between one-fifth and a quarter of people in the UK have hyperopia. Thankfully, this common error is usually easily corrected, either with glasses or contact lenses or a more permanent solution.
But before we get into all that, let’s better understand what causes long-sightedness.
What is Hyperopia (Long-Sightedness)?
The term “hyperopia” is derived from the Greek words “hyper”, meaning “beyond” or “over”, and “opia” meaning “eye” or “sight”. This refers to the refraction of light into the eye being focused beyond the retina (the photosensitive layer of cells at the back of the eye). As a result of this over-focus, close-up objects appear blurred, making it difficult to perform tasks such as reading and writing.
Hyperopia occurs when the cornea or the eyeball itself is too flat. This affects the focusing power of the eye and results in visual errors. The error is also commonly associated with symptoms such as eye strain and headaches, as patients struggle to bring their near vision into focus. Moreover, many people with hyperopia eventually also begin to notice a deterioration in their distance vision.
The Difference Between Hyperopia and Presbyopia
Hyperopia is similar to presbyopia (an age-related refractive error that causes blurred near vision); however, they are not the same. Unlike hyperopia, presbyopia is directly attributable to the natural ageing of the eyes. As a result, most people will eventually develop the condition, which is caused by the stiffening of the eye’s lens and a weakening of its muscles.
People who develop presbyopia typically end up relying on corrective glasses (reading glasses). However, in recent years, Laser Eye Surgery has become an option for correcting presbyopia.
So, what about Hyperopia?
Glasses and Contact Lenses for Hyperopia
For most people with long-sightedness, external visual aids are the initial solution. Many will start out with glasses and eventually move on to contact lenses, or continue to wear both solutions. These aids are extremely effective for a wide range of prescriptions and can even correct very severe hyperopia. However, many people eventually become tired of living with their drawbacks.
For example, glasses can be easily lost and broken, meaning wearers must either do without or fork out for a replacement pair. On the other hand, contact lenses can be an expensive option – especially over the long term – and their incorrect use can significantly increase the risk of contracting eye infections.
There is no wonder, then, that a growing number of people with hyperopia are turning to an alternative solution: Laser Eye Surgery.
The Ultimate Hyperopia Treatment: Laser Eye Surgery
Hyperopia can affect both near and distance vision – depending on how early it is detected and corrected – but with laser eye treatment, these symptoms can be completely eradicated. While the treatment might sound daunting to those who are unfamiliar with the process, Laser Eye Surgery procedures are considered to be very safe and virtually pain-free!
Nonetheless, when considering Laser Eye Surgery for hyperopia (or any other refractive error) it is important to do your research. This will allow you to familiarise yourself with the treatment and the outcomes you can expect, as well as choosing the right clinic and surgeon.
At London Vision Clinic, the process begins with a rigorous screening program. This allows us to accurately determine your suitability for the procedure, and create a detailed, personal treatment plan, tailored completely to you and your eyes. From here on out, our knowledgeable clinic staff will always be on hand to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
The treatment itself only takes a matter of minutes and many patients notice an immediate improvement in their vision. Many people are able to return to work and many normal activities within 1-2 days!
The Benefits of Hyperopia Treatment
The vast majority of patients who undergo Laser Eye Surgery for hyperopia are able to get rid of their glasses and/or contact lenses. In fact, most people achieve 20/20 vision or better! Just take a look at our Results and Statistics page for more details on our outcomes in patients with a similar prescription to your own.
Your new, sharper vision will allow you to get involved in activities that you may have not been able to in the past. You can take your book with you to the beach, go and watch the children’s football matches or jump into the car without having to remember your glasses or contact lenses! You’ll get back any time you once wasted on your vision correction routine, and there will be no more frantic visit to the opticians to replace lost or broken glasses.
If this sounds good to you, why not make it happen? Get in touch with one of our friendly clinic cooridnators to discuss our Laser Eye Surgery treatment options, or Book a Consultation today to find out if you, too, could be suitable.
