What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects the way light enters the eye, causing blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, or the lens inside the eye, has an irregular shape.
Instead of being round and smooth, it may have more of a football shape, resulting in different focal points for different directions of light. This can lead to difficulties in focusing on both near and distant objects, and often requires the use of corrective lenses.
Astigmatism can occur on its own or in conjunction with other refractive errors, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. It can affect people of all ages and is usually present from birth. While the exact cause of astigmatism is unknown, it is believed to have a genetic component and may be influenced by environmental factors.
Can you get lasik if you have astigmatism?
The good news is that many people with astigmatism can indeed undergo LASIK surgery to correct their vision. LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular refractive surgery procedure that can effectively treat a variety of vision issues, including astigmatism. During LASIK, a laser is used to reshape the cornea, correcting its irregular shape and improving visual acuity.
However, it’s important to note that not all cases of astigmatism are suitable for LASIK. The eligibility for LASIK depends on the severity and type of astigmatism, as well as other factors such as corneal thickness and overall eye health. An experienced ophthalmologist or LASIK surgeon can assess your individual case and determine if LASIK is a suitable option for you.
How does LASIK help in curing astigmatism?
LASIK is an effective treatment for astigmatism because it directly addresses the underlying cause of the condition – the irregular shape of the cornea. The LASIK procedure involves creating a thin flap on the cornea, which is then lifted to expose the underlying tissue. A laser is then used to reshape the cornea, removing tiny amounts of tissue to correct its irregularities.
By reshaping the cornea, LASIK helps to create a more symmetrical and uniform curvature, allowing light to be properly focused on the retina. This results in clearer, sharper vision for individuals with astigmatism. The precision and accuracy of the laser technology used in LASIK make it an excellent option for correcting astigmatism, providing long-lasting results.
Steps to follow to get LASIK for astigmatism
If you are considering LASIK as a treatment for your astigmatism, here are the steps you can expect in the process:
Consultation: Schedule a consultation with an experienced LASIK surgeon who will evaluate your eyes and determine your eligibility for the procedure. They will assess the severity of your astigmatism and perform various tests to ensure LASIK is a safe and viable option for you.
Pre-operative assessment:
In preparation for the surgery, you will undergo a comprehensive eye examination to gather detailed measurements and information about your eyes. This information will guide the laser in reshaping your cornea precisely.
Surgery day:
On the day of the surgery, you will be given numbing eye drops to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon will create a flap on your cornea, use the laser to reshape it, and then carefully reposition the flap. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Post-operative care:
After LASIK, you will be provided with specific instructions for post-operative care. This may include using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results.
Does LASIK hurt to cure astigmatism?
One of the most common concerns people have when considering LASIK for astigmatism is whether the procedure is painful. The good news is that LASIK is typically a painless and comfortable procedure. Before the surgery, numbing eye drops are applied to ensure that you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
After the surgery, some patients may experience mild discomfort, such as dryness or a scratchy sensation in the eyes. However, this is temporary and can be managed with prescribed eye drops and over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.
Bottom line
In conclusion, LASIK can be an effective solution for individuals with astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK addresses the underlying cause of astigmatism and can provide long-lasting improvements in vision. However, not all cases of astigmatism are suitable for LASIK, and it is crucial to consult with an experienced LASIK surgeon to determine your eligibility.
If you are considering LASIK for astigmatism, follow the steps outlined by your surgeon and ensure proper post-operative care for optimal results. Remember, LASIK is typically a painless procedure, and any discomfort experienced after the surgery is usually temporary and manageable.
