Refractive Errors Overview
Refractive errors are among the most common vision conditions in the world — and the good news is that they’re highly treatable. Whether you’re squinting to read a menu up close or struggling to make out road signs in the distance, identifying your refractive error is the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision. The most common types include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates, our experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists have helped thousands of patients in Rochester and Victor, NY diagnose and manage refractive errors. With advanced diagnostic technology and a full range of treatment options — from glasses and contacts to LASIK and lens surgery — our team is equipped to find the solution that fits your lifestyle and visual goals.
What is Nearsightedness?
Myopia (nearsightedness) is a vision condition affecting nearly a third of people in the United States. A myopic eye focuses properly on nearby objects while distant objects appear blurry. This imbalance typically occurs because the cornea either has an oblong shape or is excessively curved, allowing only some of the light entering the eye to focus on the retina. The most common symptom is difficulty seeing objects in the distance, for example a sign on the highway or your TV. Myopia usually develops before the age of 20.
What is Farsightednesss?
Hyperopia (farsightedness) occurs when the cornea is too flat or irregularly shaped, causing nearby objects to appear blurry while objects in the distance are clear. Common signs of hyperopia include difficulty maintaining a clear focus on nearby objects, and eyestrain or headache after close work.
What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a natural change in our eyes ability to focus. It occurs when the soft crystalline lens of the eye starts to harden. This loss of flexibility affects the lens’ ability to focus light in the eye, causing nearby objects to look blurry. Presbyopia occurs in individuals during their 40s or 50s, even in patients who have had laser vision correction. The effects of presbyopia can be corrected either with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. There are several surgical options including multifocal lens implantation in Clear Lens Exchange and MonoVision LASIK. Laser surgeries such as conventional LASIK and PRK cannot correct presbyopia because these types of refractive surgery only reshape the cornea rather than treat the lens.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea is oblong rather than spherical in shape. This irregular curvature prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. As a result, objects close or far away may appear blurry or doubled. Astigmatism can cause headaches, eyestrain, fatigue, and blurred or distorted vision. Most people have some degree of astigmatism, which often occurs in combination with myopia or hyperopia. Regular astigmatism is found in 30-40% of people who wear glasses.
Why Choose Cornerstone Eye Associates?
When it comes to your vision, you deserve a care team you can trust. Cornerstone Eye Associates has been serving patients throughout Rochester and Victor, NY with expert refractive care backed by decades of combined clinical experience. Our board-certified ophthalmologists and licensed optometrists use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to accurately assess your vision and recommend the most effective treatment — whether that’s precision-crafted eyewear from our optical department, contact lenses, or a surgical option like LASIK, PRK, or Clear Lens Exchange.
We’ve helped thousands of patients reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contacts — and we’re ready to help you, too. Contact Cornerstone Eye Associates today to schedule your free consultation and discover which vision correction solution is right for you. Call us at (585) 420-8158 — clearer vision starts here.
