Refractive Hyperopia: Long-Sightedness and Surgical Solutions
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 20
- 4 min read
Introduction: Why Hyperopia Matters
Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, makes it difficult to see nearby objects clearly while distant vision often remains sharp. For children, it can affect reading and school performance. For adults, it can cause eye strain, headaches, and difficulty with prolonged near work.
In Singapore, refractive hyperopia is managed with a range of options, from spectacles and contact lenses to refractive surgeries like PRK and ICL, depending on age, prescription, and lifestyle needs.
What Is Refractive Hyperopia?
Refractive hyperopia occurs when the eye is too short or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina. Unlike presbyopia (age-related near-vision difficulty), hyperopia is present from birth and may persist into adulthood.
Causes and Risk Factors
Genetics and family history.
Shorter-than-normal eyeball length.
Flattened corneal curvature.
Age, as mild hyperopia may become more noticeable later in life.
Symptoms of Refractive Hyperopia
Blurred vision for close tasks.
Headaches after reading or screen use.
Eye strain, especially at night.
Squinting to see clearly.
In children, difficulty with near-based learning activities.
Complications if Untreated
Persistent headaches and fatigue.
Lazy eye (amblyopia) in children.
Strabismus (eye misalignment).
Reduced performance in school or work tasks requiring near vision.
Diagnosis
Visual acuity test to assess near and far clarity.
Refraction test with trial lenses.
Comprehensive eye exam to rule out amblyopia or strabismus in children.
Correction and Treatment Options
Spectacles
Single-vision lenses for near correction.
Progressive or bifocal lenses for adults with presbyopia as well.
Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses for everyday use.
Specialty lenses for higher hyperopia prescriptions.
Refractive Surgery
For adults with stable prescriptions:
PRK: Reshapes the cornea to correct light focusing.
SMILE: Less commonly used for hyperopia but possible in selected cases.
ICL: Implantable collamer lenses placed inside the eye, suitable for higher hyperopia or unsuitable corneal thickness.
Lifestyle and Prevention
Encourage regular eye check-ups from childhood.
Monitor for signs of eye strain during study or screen use.
Early correction in children to prevent amblyopia or strabismus.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between hyperopia and presbyopia?
Hyperopia is present from birth and affects near vision, while presbyopia develops with age due to loss of lens flexibility.
2. Can hyperopia get worse with age?
Yes, while mild hyperopia may go unnoticed in youth, symptoms often become more noticeable as the eye’s natural focusing ability declines.
3. Is refractive surgery safe for hyperopia?
Yes. PRK and ICL are common surgical options when glasses or contacts are insufficient. Suitability depends on corneal thickness, age, and prescription stability.
4. Can children with hyperopia outgrow it?
Mild hyperopia may improve as the eye grows, but many children still require corrective lenses to prevent eye strain or amblyopia.
5. Are there non-surgical options for adults?
Yes. Glasses and contact lenses remain effective, especially for those who are not candidates for surgery.
6. How does uncorrected hyperopia affect children?
It can cause eye strain, poor reading performance, and risk of lazy eye or strabismus.
7. What is the highest level of hyperopia correctable by surgery?
ICL is often used for higher prescriptions beyond the safe limits of laser correction.
8. How often should hyperopia patients see an eye specialist?
Annually, or more frequently in children or adults with changing symptoms.
Meet Our Specialists
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Jayant V Iyer
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Special interest: Cataract, Glaucoma, General Ophthalmology With specialist training in Singapore and the UK, Dr Jayant V Iyer has served as Head of Department at Sengkang General Hospital and Senior Consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. He is committed to delivering safe, precise surgical care with clear communication at every stage.
Dr Jason Lee
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Oculoplastics, General Ophthalmology, Myopia, Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy Dr Jason Lee has extensive training in eyelid, orbital, and tear system surgery, with fellowships completed in Taiwan and China. Previously a Senior Consultant at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, he co-founded The Vision Mission, a non-profit bringing sustainable eye care to communities in Asia.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
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