Astigmatism is a common vision problem with high prevalence that causes blurry or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. Many people wonder if LASIK can correct this issue and provide clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. At Porter Ophthalmology, we help patients explore personalized solutions for vision correction, including LASIK. To learn more and find out if LASIK is right for your astigmatism, schedule an appointment with Porter Ophthalmology today.
Can LASIK fix astigmatism?
Yes, today’s laser vision correction procedures can improve blurry vision caused by astigmatism.
Many ask: Can LASIK fix astigmatism? The short answer is YES! Astigmatism affects 1 in 3 people in the U.S. with blurry vision, eye strain, and the potential lifetime dependence on glasses or contacts. However, advances in laser vision correction technology make it possible for those with astigmatism prescriptions to reduce or eliminate their need for glasses with LASIK or other laser vision correction procedure.
Most astigmatism is hereditary, meaning people are born with it. Because astigmatism is the result of an uneven or imperfectly shaped eye (an analogy often used to describe this is to say the cornea is shaped like a football rather than a basketball), most people have some – even very slight – degree of astigmatism. If the eye isn’t perfectly round – like a basketball – light can’t focus accurately which leads to blurred vision.
While glasses and contacts can help correct or fix astigmatism, today’s laser eye surgery options can provide more people than ever with clear, reliable, and safe vision without them. Most people are familiar with LASIK, but there are several alternatives in laser vision correction today including SMILE and PRK.
D is for Diopter
Vision prescriptions are measured in diopters (D), which is a unit of optical power. A perfect eye, also known as “plano,” has a prescription of 0.00 D. However, most people – even if they are unaware of it – have at least a small amount of visual distortion – usually between 0.50 and 0.75 D. Typically, people with prescriptions over 0.75 require some form of correction to fix their astigmatism, usually in the form of glasses or contacts.
How can LASIK fix astigmatism?
LASIK, LALEX (SMILE), and PRK work by using sophisticated laser technologies to reshape the cornea, eliminating the imperfections that create vision problems and improving the eye’s ability to focus clearly. Today’s advanced laser eye surgeries can treat a broad range of vision prescriptions:
- up to 6.0 D (diopters) of astigmatism
- up to -12.0 D of nearsightedness
- up to +6.0 D of farsightedness
It isn’t unusual for people to have both nearsightedness as well as astigmatism in their vision prescription. Fortunately, today’s laser vision correction options can treat those with mixed prescriptions.
Early in the development of laser vision correction, more than 25 years ago, those with astigmatism or a mix of astigmatism and nearsightedness may not have been good candidates. However, today’s advancements in laser technology, along with the development of more types of laser vision correction, make it possible for more patients and more prescriptions to be eligible for laser eye surgery.
How do I find out if LASIK can treat my astigmatism?
There are so many options in laser vision correction today, having a thorough evaluation by an eye surgeon is the best first step in getting an answer to the question: Can LASIK fix my astigmatism? Importantly, that consultation includes a spectrum of sophisticated diagnostics of your eye to measure all the different aspects of it that go into how well (or how poorly) you see. A lot of data is gathered, all of which helps the surgeon answer a few questions:
- Are your eyes healthy?
- Is your vision prescription in a treatable range for laser vision correction?
- Are you are good candidate for laser eye surgery?
- If so, which procedure – or procedures – are best suited for you and your vision?
- If not, are there other vision correction options I might consider?
The good news is today there are lots of different procedures your eye surgeon can perform to eliminate or reduce your need for glasses or contacts, even if you have astigmatism. If you are ready to take the next step, call us to schedule a consultation at Porter Ophthalmology.
Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision
If you’re tired of dealing with astigmatism and want to explore your options for clear vision without glasses or contacts, LASIK or other laser vision correction procedures could be the solution. At Porter Ophthalmology, our experienced team is ready to help you determine the best treatment for your unique needs. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a life with sharper vision!
FAQ’s About Can LASIK Fix Astigmatism
How long does LASIK for astigmatism last?
LASIK surgery results are generally long-lasting. While your vision may change with age, the correction for astigmatism typically remains stable for many years.
Can LASIK fix severe astigmatism?
LASIK can correct up to 6.0 diopters of astigmatism. The team at Porter Ophthalmology will assess your specific prescription and recommend the best procedure for you.
Is LASIK for astigmatism covered by insurance?
LASIK is usually considered an elective procedure, so it’s typically not covered by insurance. However, Porter Ophthalmology offers flexible financing and easy payment options to make LASIK more affordable for patients seeking relief from astigmatism.
What happens if my astigmatism returns after LASIK?
While rare, regression can occur in some cases. Porter Ophthalmology can provide follow-up treatments, including enhancement procedures, to refine your vision if needed and safe, ensuring that you continue to enjoy clear, sharp vision after LASIK.
Can LASIK fix both astigmatism and nearsightedness at the same time?
Yes, LASIK can correct both astigmatism and nearsightedness (myopia) in a single procedure. At Porter Ophthalmology, we use advanced technology to reshape the corneal curve, improving visual acuity and reducing the need for corrective lenses. Whether your eyeglass prescription includes astigmatism, near-sightedness, or both, our team tailors the treatment to your specific needs. LASIK is a widely researched procedure with a strong track record of success, reducing the risk of visual impairment associated with common conditions like myopia and astigmatism.
Can LASIK correct astigmatism in both eyes at once?
Yes, LASIK is commonly performed on both eyes during the same session. At Porter Ophthalmology, we ensure the procedure is safely done for both eyes, optimizing vision correction for astigmatism in just one visit.
Will I still need glasses after LASIK for astigmatism?
Most patients do not need glasses after LASIK for astigmatism. However, as you age, you will eventually need reading glasses for presbyopia in you mid to late forties. Porter Ophthalmology will discuss long-term vision expectations with you during your consultation.
How do I know if LASIK is the best option for my astigmatism?
During your doctor’s visit at Porter Ophthalmology, we will evaluate your vision and assess your candidacy for LASIK. We measure your retina, cornea, and visual acuity to determine if LASIK or another form of therapy, like LALEX (SMILE) or PRK, would be the best solution for you. If LASIK is not the ideal choice, we can explore other corrective lens options.
How long does it take to recover from LASIK for astigmatism?
Most people experience improved vision within 24-48 hours after LASIK, although it can take a few weeks for vision to fully stabilize. At Porter Ophthalmology, we guide patients through the recovery process and provide personalized post-operative care to ensure smooth healing and optimal results.
Is LASIK for astigmatism painful?
LASIK is generally painless, as numbing drops are used during the procedure. Patients may feel some discomfort or mild irritation for a few hours afterward. Porter Ophthalmology ensures that your experience is as comfortable as possible, with comprehensive post-op instructions to help manage any discomfort.
What are the risks of LASIK for astigmatism?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved with LASIK, such as complications with the corneal flap or healing. At Porter Ophthalmology, we perform comprehensive pre-operative assessments, including corneal topography, to minimize these risks and ensure your eye is well-suited for the procedure. Your eye doctor will monitor signs and symptoms throughout your healing process to reduce the risk of complications.
Is LASIK for astigmatism affected by outdoor activities?
Recent research suggests that outdoor activities promoting Vitamin D exposure can benefit overall eye health. LASIK can be an excellent option for patients with astigmatism, regardless of their lifestyle. Porter Ophthalmology offers LASIK consultations to evaluate your individual needs and how your daily activities may influence your eye health post-surgery.
Can LASIK improve visual perception for astigmatism?
Yes, LASIK can improve visual perception and sharpen overall clarity by correcting irregularities in the corneal curve of the human eye. This leads to more accurate focusing of light on the retina, which enhances visual acuity. At Porter Ophthalmology, we use the latest technology to ensure precise results that meet your unique vision needs.
Dr. Isaac Porter, MD is an ophthalmology specialist in Raleigh, NC. Dr. Porter is also a fellowship-trained refractive surgeon. His areas of expertise include laser vision correction with LASIK, LALEX (SMILE), PRK, and LR, as well as modern cataract surgery, including laser surgery and advanced technology lens implants that can correct a wide range of vision and astigmatism. He is also the only surgeon in North Carolina performing the newest laser vision correction procedure, LALEX (SMILE). He graduated from University of Kentucky College of Medicine in 2005.