If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism, you might wonder if LASIK eye surgery could be the solution. Astigmatism is a common eye condition. It affects how your eye focuses light. This often leads to blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) is irregularly shaped, more like a football than a basketball. But can LASIK, a popular refractive surgery, correct astigmatism and free you from the need for glasses or contacts?

How Does LASIK Work?

LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgery that reshapes the cornea. This procedure helps fix vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. During the procedure, a laser makes a thin flap on the cornea. This flap is lifted to allow for precise reshaping of the tissue underneath. This reshaping alters the way light enters the eye and focuses on the retina, ultimately enhancing your vision.

Can LASIK Correct Astigmatism?

The simple answer is yes—LASIK can correct astigmatism. The laser utilized in LASIK surgery can be precisely programmed to address specific irregularities in the cornea, including the uneven curvature responsible for astigmatism. LASIK reshapes the cornea to make it more symmetrical. This helps light focus correctly on the retina, leading to clearer vision.

Many people with mild to moderate astigmatism have had LASIK and have seen big improvements in their vision. With advanced laser technology, LASIK can now correct higher degrees of astigmatism than was possible in the past.

Is LASIK the Right Choice for Your Astigmatism?

While LASIK can correct astigmatism in many cases, it’s important to know that not everyone is a candidate for the procedure. Here are a few key factors that will determine whether LASIK is a good option for you:

1. Stable Prescription: Your vision prescription should be stable for at least one year before considering LASIK. If your astigmatism is still changing, LASIK may not provide long-term correction.
2. Corneal Thickness: Since LASIK involves reshaping the cornea, patients with thin corneas might not be ideal candidates for the surgery. During your evaluation, your eye doctor will measure the thickness of your cornea to ensure it’s safe to proceed.
3. Degree of Astigmatism: LASIK can fix mild to moderate astigmatism. However, very high levels may need other treatments. These options include PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) or implantable lenses (ICLs).
4. Overall Eye Health: Conditions like dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, or cataracts may affect your suitability for LASIK. A comprehensive eye exam will help determine if you’re a good candidate.

Benefits of LASIK for Astigmatism

LASIK offers several benefits for people with astigmatism:

• Quick Recovery: Most patients see clearer vision within 24 hours. They can return to normal activities in a few days.
• Long-Lasting Results: For many, LASIK provides permanent vision correction, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contacts.
• Precision: Advanced laser technology allows for precise correction, making it possible to address even complex cases of astigmatism.

Alternatives to LASIK for Astigmatism

If you’re not a candidate for LASIK, don’t worry—there are other ways to correct astigmatism:

• PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Similar to LASIK, PRK reshapes the cornea but doesn’t involve creating a flap. This makes it a better option for those with thin corneas or higher levels of astigmatism.
• Toric Contact Lenses: These special lenses are designed to correct astigmatism by compensating for the uneven shape of the cornea.
• Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs): These lenses are surgically implanted into the eye to correct vision without reshaping the cornea.

Conclusion

LASIK is a highly effective and widely sought-after treatment for astigmatism, providing many patients with the opportunity to attain clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it is crucial to consult with a qualified eye surgeon to assess whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

At SightMD, our team of skilled eye doctors will guide you through the process and answer your questions. If you’re interested in LASIK or other corrective procedures, contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Schedule your LASIK consultation with SightMD today and take the first step towards clearer vision!