Can LASIK Eye Surgery Fix Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision at any distance. While glasses and contact lenses can correct astigmatism, many people wonder if LASIK eye surgery can provide a more permanent solution. In this blog post, we'll explore how LASIK works, its effectiveness in treating astigmatism, and what you can expect if you're considering this life-changing procedure at Kelly Vision Center.

Understanding Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is more oval-shaped than round, like a football rather than a basketball. This irregular shape causes light entering the eye to focus on multiple points instead of a single one, leading to blurry or distorted vision. Astigmatism can occur on its own or alongside other refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).

Symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Headaches
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Many people with mild astigmatism may not even realize they have it, while others may find it
• significantly impacts their quality of life.

How LASIK Corrects Astigmatism

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular and highly effective laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors, including astigmatism. During the procedure, a specialized laser is used to precisely remove microscopic layers of corneal tissue, reshaping the cornea to ensure light entering the eye focuses correctly on the retina, resulting in clear vision.

For those with astigmatism, LASIK can correct the irregular curvature of the cornea, effectively eliminating the distortion that causes blurred vision. The laser is guided by detailed measurements of your eye’s shape, allowing the surgeon to create a custom treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Effectiveness of LASIK for Astigmatism

LASIK has been proven to be highly effective in treating astigmatism, with many patients achieving 20/20 vision or better after the procedure. In fact, LASIK is considered one of the most successful options for correcting astigmatism, especially when it is mild to moderate.

However, the effectiveness of LASIK for astigmatism can depend on several factors, including:

• The severity of the astigmatism: LASIK is most effective for mild to moderate astigmatism. Patients with very high levels of astigmatism may still benefit, but the outcome might not be as predictable.
• The health of the cornea: LASIK requires sufficient corneal thickness to safely reshape the eye.
• Patients with thin or irregular corneas may not be suitable candidates for LASIK but may be considered for other procedures like PRK or implantable lenses.
• The presence of other refractive errors: LASIK can simultaneously correct astigmatism and other vision problems like myopia or hyperopia.

What to Expect During and After LASIK for Astigmatism

If you're considering LASIK for astigmatism, here's what you can expect during the process:

1. Consultation: The first step is a comprehensive eye exam at Kelly Vision Center, where your eye health, corneal thickness, and the degree of astigmatism will be evaluated. If you're a good candidate for LASIK, your surgeon will discuss the procedure, its benefits, and any potential risks.
2. Procedure: LASIK is an outpatient procedure that typically takes less than 30 minutes. Numbing eye drops are used to ensure your comfort. The surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea, reshapes the underlying tissue with the laser, and then repositions the flap.
3. Recovery: Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours, though it may take a few weeks for your vision to stabilize fully. You'll need to avoid rubbing your eyes and follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
4. Results: Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it's important to note that results can vary, and some patients may still need corrective eyewear for certain activities.

Is LASIK Right for You?

LASIK is a safe and effective option for many people with astigmatism, but it's not suitable for everyone. The best way to determine if LASIK is right for you is to schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Kelly Vision Center. Our experts will evaluate your unique vision needs and help you make an informed decision about your eye care.

Why Choose Kelly Vision Center?

At Kelly Vision Center, we prioritize your vision and eye health with personalized care and the latest technology. Our experienced team of board-certified surgeons is dedicated to delivering outstanding results, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way. Trust us to help you achieve clear, sharp vision with a commitment to excellence and patient-focused care.