Can I Still Have Laser Eye Surgery If I Have Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common vision issue that can blur your sight and cause eye strain. But can it prevent you from getting laser eye surgery? The good news is that for most people, the answer is no. In fact, laser eye surgery is an excellent option for correcting astigmatism. Let’s explore how this works, the types of surgeries available, and what to expect during the process.

What Is Astigmatism, and How Does It Affect Vision?

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped front of the eye) or the lens inside the eye is more curved in some areas than others. This prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred vision. Many people with astigmatism also experience eye strain and fatigue, particularly when their vision isn’t corrected with glasses or contact lenses. It’s worth noting that most people have some degree of astigmatism. In many cases, it’s mild and easily correctable, including through laser eye surgery.

Can Laser Eye Surgery Treat Astigmatism?

Yes, laser eye surgery can effectively treat astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. The same technology used to correct short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia) can adjust the curvature of the cornea caused by astigmatism, improving your vision significantly. People with mild to moderate astigmatism are usually great candidates for laser eye surgery.

Types of Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism

There are three main types of laser eye surgery commonly used to treat astigmatism:

1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):

LASIK is the most popular form of laser eye surgery. It involves creating a small flap in the cornea, reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser, and repositioning the flap.

2. TransPRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):

TransPRK is where the laser reshapes the surface of the cornea and then the skin layer has to regrown to cover this area. 

3. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):

SMILE is a new technique that reshapes the cornea by removing a disc-shaped piece of tissue through a small incision.

The best option for you will depend on factors such as how short- or longsighted you are, the amount of astigmatism you have and its pattern, the thickness of your cornea, and your overall eye health.

Is Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism More Complex?

While the surgery itself is no more complicated than treating other vision issues, astigmatism correction often requires detailed planning and precise execution. In cases of severe or irregular astigmatism, advanced techniques like wavefront or topography-guided ablations may be used to achieve optimal results.

Are There Any Specific Risks for Astigmatism Treatment?

Laser eye surgery for astigmatism is generally safe, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks, including:

● Under or Over-Correction: Some astigmatism may remain, requiring enhancement surgery.

● Visual Fluctuations: Vision may take a few weeks to stabilise and lubricating eye drops are typically needed for the first 2-3 months to help with eye comfort.

● Neuroadaptation: The brain may need time to adjust to your new vision.

However, these risks are minimal when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon such as Mr Alex Day.

FAQs About Laser Eye Surgery and Astigmatism

1. Am I a good candidate for laser eye surgery if I have astigmatism?

Mr Alex Day and his team will perform a comprehensive eye examination to determine your suitability for laser eye surgery. You will have various measurements of your eyes, including your prescription, the thickness and curvature patterns of your eyes by corneal tomography and wavefront scanning to measure higher order aberrations,  your pupil size and a detailed microscope check of the overall health of your eyes. Sometimes, a lens implant technique, called ICL (implantable contact lens), is preferred over laser vision correction.

2. What is recovery like after laser eye surgery for astigmatism?

Recovery is typically quick, but full stabilisation of vision can take a few months. Mild discomfort, visual fluctuations, and dry eyes are normal during the initial days post-surgery.

Summary

Astigmatism shouldn’t hold you back from achieving clearer vision. Laser eye surgery is a proven and effective way to correct astigmatism for most people. By consulting an experienced surgeon, you can explore your options and take the first step towards a life with improved vision.

If you’re considering laser eye surgery in London, schedule a consultation with Mr Day to find out if it’s the right solution for you.