Can Lasik Eye Surgery Treat Astigmatism?

Posted by: Caster Eye Center in lasik eye surgery

Astigmatism is a common vision condition that affects many. Like nearsightedness and farsightedness, astigmatism is a type of refractive error, simply meaning the eye has trouble on how it focuses light which results in blurry vision. If astigmatism is not corrected, it can result in strains and headaches especially after long visual tasks. LASIK surgery is widely known for its ability to treat astigmatism.

Types of Astigmatism – Can Astigmastism be fixed with LASIK?

• Myopic astigmatism
• Hyperopic astigmatism
• Mixed astigmatism

Treatment Options for Astigmatism

Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses are usually the first choice for individuals dealing with astigmatism. Prescription lenses are able to compensate for astigmatism because they contain a special cylindrical lens. However, eyeglasses can create blind spots because they only work well when looking straight ahead.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses provide a clearer vision at all distances than glasses can achieve. However, contact lenses are applied directly onto the eye and require regular cleaning and care to protect the user’s eyes. Many individuals have dry eyes due to their contact lenses, so they constantly require use of eyedrops and cleaning.

LASIK Surgery

According to the American Optometric Association, LASIK eye surgery has been proven effective to treat those with mild to moderate forms of astigmatism. LASIK surgery can be used to treat myopic, hyperopic, and mixed astigmatism. By reshaping the inner layer of the cornea it can correct astigmatism and provide clearer vision.

Many patients decide to have LASIK surgery in order to correct their astigmatism, because it provides better results than eyeglasses or contact lenses. It is also a better alternative because you do not have to constantly depend on vision correction eyewear in order to see clearly.

Individuals with astigmatism have a range of options to correct their vision problems. Speak to your optometrist by scheduling a consultation with our Beverly Hills laser eye surgeon to select the best treatment that meets your needs.