Astigmatism is a common refractive error that affects many individuals, often causing blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped, leading to difficulties in focusing light on the retina. This condition can impact daily activities, such as reading, driving—especially at night—and even enjoying your favourite sports. As a result, many people wonder: Is it worth correcting astigmatism with LASIK surgery?
Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism can be classified into two main types: corneal astigmatism, where the cornea has an uneven curvature, and lenticular astigmatism, which occurs when the lens of the eye is distorted. Symptoms often include blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eye strain. Over time, astigmatism can worsen, leading to more significant visual impairment. This raises an important question: Is astigmatism genetic? Yes, genetic factors can play a role in its development, but environmental influences, such as prolonged screen time and eye strain, may also contribute.
The Role of LASIK Surgery in Astigmatism Correction
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular surgical option for correcting refractive errors, including astigmatism. The procedure uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus more accurately on the retina. Many prospective patients ask, Can LASIK surgery fix astigmatism? The answer is yes—LASIK is effective for many individuals with mild to moderate astigmatism.
Another common concern is whether patients can have LASIK with astigmatism. Fortunately, LASIK can be tailored to suit various astigmatism levels, making it a viable option for those affected by this condition.
What does Astigmatism look like?
The Diagram shows how the cornea is oval-shaped or irregular, like a rugby ball rather than a basketball. This shape causes light to refract unevenly, creating multiple focal points either in front of or behind the retina. As a result, the image appears blurry or distorted at various distances.
Benefits and Limitations of LASIK for Astigmatism
Exploring LASIK for astigmatism involves weighing its pros—like long-term vision improvement and reduced dependency on corrective lenses—against potential cons, such as temporary side effects and the possibility of needing enhancements over time.
Pros of LASIK for Astigmatism
Improved Vision
Many patients experience significantly enhanced vision following LASIK surgery, with many achieving 20/25 vision or better. For example, a patient with mild astigmatism who previously relied on glasses or contact lenses may find that after the procedure, they can see clearly without any corrective lenses for daily activities, such as reading, driving, or watching television.
One such patient, Sarah, had a cylindrical prescription of -2.50 diopters before her LASIK procedure. After a successful surgery at EuroEyes, she returned for a follow-up appointment and was thrilled to discover that her vision had improved to 20/20. This enhancement allowed her to enjoy activities like night driving and outdoor sports without the hassle of glasses, significantly improving her quality of life.
This remarkable transformation is not uncommon; many patients report similar results, experiencing the freedom and convenience that come with improved vision.
Quick Recovery
The LASIK procedure is relatively quick, typically taking only about 10 minutes per eye, and most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two. For instance, after undergoing LASIK at EuroEyes, John, a busy professional, was amazed at how swiftly he could get back to his routine. He had his surgery on a Friday afternoon and was back to work by Monday, enjoying clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. This rapid recovery allows patients to resume their daily lives almost immediately, making LASIK a convenient option for those looking to improve their vision without significant downtime.
Long-Lasting Results
LASIK surgery offers lasting benefits by reshaping the cornea to correct vision, often providing patients with years of clear sight without the daily need for glasses or contact lenses. For example, a 30-year-old who undergoes LASIK to correct nearsightedness may find they no longer rely on glasses for driving or seeing at a distance, enjoying improved vision well into their 40s. While natural ageing may eventually affect eyesight, LASIK’s effects are designed to be permanent, allowing many patients to enjoy a glasses-free life for years.
CONS OF LASIK For Astigmatism
However, there are also cons to consider:
Lasik For Astigmatism Is Not for Everyone
LASIK may not be suitable for individuals with severe astigmatism or certain underlying eye conditions. While LASIK is an effective solution for many patients with mild to moderate astigmatism, those with more complex cases may require alternative treatments.
For instance, individuals with high astigmatism—typically defined as a cylindrical prescription greater than -3.00 diopters—might not achieve optimal results from LASIK. This is because the laser can only correct a certain amount of corneal irregularity, and those with severe distortions might need additional or different surgical approaches. Additionally, patients with keratoconus, a condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, are usually not candidates for LASIK. Keratoconus results in significant visual distortion and requires specialised treatments, such as corneal cross-linking or Intacs (intracorneal rings), to strengthen the cornea and improve vision.
Another example is individuals with dry eye syndrome or severe dry eyes, which can be exacerbated by LASIK. This condition can lead to prolonged recovery times and increased discomfort post-surgery. In such cases, addressing the dry eye issue before considering LASIK or exploring alternative vision correction methods may be necessary.
Finally, those with other eye diseases, such as glaucoma or cataracts, may also face challenges with LASIK. These conditions can impact the eye’s overall health and its ability to heal after surgery. For patients with cataracts, lens replacement surgery might be a more appropriate option, while those with glaucoma might need careful management and treatment to stabilize their condition before considering any form of vision correction.
Given these factors, it is crucial for individuals considering LASIK to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified ophthalmologist. At EuroEyes, our team of experts can assess your unique situation and determine whether LASIK is the right choice for you or if alternative options might be more suitable for your specific needs.
Alternative Treatments for Astigmatism
While LASIK is a popular choice, it’s important to consider alternative options. Eyeglasses and contact lenses, including specialised toric lenses designed for astigmatism, can effectively correct vision. For those seeking a more permanent solution without surgery, implantable contact lenses (ICLs) may be an option worth exploring.
Additionally, coloured contact lenses for astigmatism, which we do not recommend are available, allowing wearers to correct their vision while changing their eye colour. However, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best option for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes astigmatism to worsen?
Factors such as age, changes in the shape of the cornea, and eye strain can contribute to worsening astigmatism over time.
Can astigmatism get worse?
Yes, astigmatism can progress, particularly if left untreated, emphasising the importance of regular eye exams.
How common is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is quite common; studies suggest that approximately one in three people has some degree of astigmatism.
Can I wear normal contact lenses with astigmatism?
Standard contact lenses may not provide adequate vision correction for astigmatism. However, specialised toric lenses are designed specifically for this condition.
What does astigmatism do?
Astigmatism can lead to blurry or distorted vision at all distances, making everyday tasks more challenging.
Is Lasik Laser Eye Surgery For You?
Deciding to correct astigmatism with LASIK surgery is a significant choice that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and limitations. At EuroEyes, we pride ourselves on being the leading experts in London for LASIK procedures tailored specifically for astigmatism. Our experienced ophthalmologists are dedicated to providing personalised care, ensuring that the advantages of improved vision with ICL or LASIK and enhanced convenience truly outweigh any potential risks.
If you’re contemplating LASIK, we invite you to consult with our specialised team at EuroEyes. We will assess your unique situation, evaluate your candidacy, and discuss all available options to help you achieve optimal visual clarity. With our expertise and commitment to patient care, you can make an informed decision that not only improves your vision but also elevates your quality of life.
