Clear Vision Ahead: Understanding Astigmatism and LASIK

Discover how LASIK can correct astigmatism and improve your vision.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of being perfectly round, the cornea is shaped more like a football, leading to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, resulting in unclear vision. Most people will have some astigmatism, but due to genetics or other factors some people may have a lot.

Normal Vision

Astigmatism

Symptoms of Astigmatism:

Blurred or distorted vision

Eye strain or discomfort

Difficulty seeing at night

Squinting

Difficulty seeing without special contact lenses

Astigmatism LASIK Treatment

Can I have LASIK if I have astigmatism?

One of the most common misconceptions about LASIK that people have is that if they have astigmatism, they aren’t a good candidate for LASIK. The truth is quite the opposite - many people with higher amounts of astigmatism struggle to see clearly with contacts lenses, and they may only see best through the center point on their glasses, with blurring as they look to the side. Often these are the very people motivated to have LASIK as a better alternative to glasses and contacts! LASIK surgery can correct even higher amounts of astigmatism, as well as nearsightedness or farsightedness that patients may have.

Benefits of LASIK for Astigmatism:

  • Quick procedure (usually less than 30 minutes)
  • Immediate improvement in vision for most patients
  • Minimal discomfort
  • Fast recovery time
  • Long-lasting results

How is my astigmatism measured and treated?

Your LASIK exam will be one of the most thorough eyes exams you have ever had. During your exam we will measure you refraction (need for glasses) both undilated and dilated, checking for astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia), and farsightedness (hyperopia). We will also take detailed maps of the shape of your cornea (topography), and wavefront measurements (total optics including both regular and irregular astigmatism).

With all of these measurements your LASIK surgeon can plan a treatment to correct your vision. Astigmatism means your eye’s shape is out-of-round, and needs to be rounded out to correct it. We use only the state-of-the-art lasers, and have the most experienced surgeons in Dayton and the Miami Valley to ensure you the best experience possible.

Eligibility for LASIK:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Stable vision prescription for at least one year
  • No significant eye health issues
  • Adequate corneal thickness

Why is LASIK a great option for patients with astigmatism?

LASIK is a highly effective and reliable solution for patients with astigmatism, offering numerous benefits that make it a preferred choice for vision correction. The precision of the excimer laser used in LASIK allows for the accurate reshaping of the cornea, correcting the irregular curvature that causes astigmatism. This results in clear, sharp vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The procedure is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision almost immediately. The recovery time is minimal, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities within a day or two.

Additionally, LASIK's long-lasting results mean that many patients enjoy improved vision for years, making it a cost-effective and convenient option. With a high success rate and a strong track record of safety, LASIK offers a transformative solution that can dramatically enhance the quality of life for those suffering from astigmatism.

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