Refractive Error Closed Caption

A refractive error occurs when light is not focused properly on the retina at the back of the eye.

The curved surface of the eyeball bends light, much like a magnifying glass. This is called refraction. As the light is refracted it should focus on the retina, which lines the back surface of the eye.

Light enters your eye through two curved surfaces. First it passes through the cornea where most of the focusing occurs. Next, the lens, slightly adjusts the light to focus on the retina.

If the light focuses ahead of the retina, the eye is nearsighted or myopic. If the light focuses behind the retina, it is farsighted, or hyperopic. Astigmatism can result when the eye is unevenly rounded. Imperfections of the cornea or lens can also cause Astigmatism.

Glasses and contact lenses are made to bend light at a precise angle to offset the error that occurs in your eye. Surgery and corneal molding may also be options for the correction of refractive errors.

Please consult your eye care professional to discuss the solution that is best for you.