OOMC News

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea—the clear, front surface of the eye—is irregularly shaped. Instead of being perfectly round like a basketball, the cornea may be more oval, similar to the shape of a football. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina at the back of your eye, causing blurred or distorted vision at any distance.

Common symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• Eye strain or fatigue
• Headaches after reading or screen time
• Squinting to see clearly

While glasses and contact lenses can correct astigmatism, LASIK offers a permanent solution by reshaping the cornea.

How LASIK Corrects Astigmatism

LASIK, or laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. Here’s how it works:

Creating a corneal flap

Your surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin flap in the cornea. This flap allows the underlying corneal tissue to be reshaped precisely.

Reshaping the cornea

An excimer laser removes microscopic amounts of corneal tissue to correct the irregular shape caused by astigmatism. By creating a smoother, more symmetrical curve, light can properly focus on the retina.

Replacing the flap

The corneal flap is gently repositioned, where it naturally adheres without stitches, acting as a protective layer during healing.

This process allows LASIK to correct not only astigmatism but also nearsightedness and farsightedness at the same time if present. The result is improved vision with minimal discomfort and a rapid recovery period.

Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK?

While LASIK is effective for many patients, it’s not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates for LASIK to treat astigmatism typically:

• Are at least 18 years old
• Have a stable prescription for at least one year
• Do not have active eye conditions like severe dry eye or corneal disease
• Are in good overall health
• Have corneas thick enough to allow for the creation of a flap

It’s also important to note that LASIK can correct most, but not all, levels of astigmatism. Generally, patients with up to 5.00 diopters of astigmatism fall within treatment guidelines. For those with higher prescriptions, alternatives such as PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) or implantable lenses may be more appropriate.

What to Expect During LASIK and Recovery

LASIK is an outpatient procedure that typically takes only a few minutes per eye. Before surgery, numbing eye drops ensure a comfortable experience, and patients often report feeling only mild pressure or light sensations.

• After the procedure:
• Most patients notice improved vision within 24-48 hours
• Mild irritation or sensitivity to light may occur for a day or two
• Full vision stabilization may take a few weeks to a few months

Because LASIK reshapes the cornea permanently, the majority of patients achieve lasting improvement, often seeing 20/20 vision or better.

FAQs About LASIK and Astigmatism

1. Can LASIK treat all types of astigmatism?
LASIK can correct most types of corneal astigmatism, including nearsighted or farsighted astigmatism. However, very high prescriptions or irregular corneal shapes may require alternative procedures.

2. Is LASIK painful for astigmatism?
According to LASIK, the actual laser vision correction treatment often takes less than two minutes and is virtually painless with most patients back to regular activities the next day.* Patients may experience mild discomfort or dryness during recovery.

3. Will my vision be perfect after LASIK?
While LASIK significantly improves vision for most patients, some may still need reading glasses for close work as they age, or minor enhancements if a small residual prescription remains.

Ask about LASIK for Astigmatism

LASIK can offer a safe, effective, and lasting solution for many people living with astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, it allows light to focus properly on the retina, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses and contact lenses.

If you’re ready to explore whether LASIK can correct your astigmatism and help you achieve clearer vision, schedule a consultation at OOMC today. Our team of experts will evaluate your eyes, discuss your options, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you see your world more clearly.

*Source: LASIK.com