Reader Question: I have astigmatism. Am I still a good candidate for laser eye surgery, and what are my treatment options?
The short answer is yes, you’re a good candidate for laser eye surgery. Procedures like LASIK, PRK, and SMILE are all effective at reshaping your cornea to address irregular curves, significantly improving your vision.
Astigmatism is a common refractive error that affects the way light focuses on the retina, leading to blurry vision. Because it’s caused by irregularities in the cornea, doctors can correct it with surgeries like LASIK.
The success rate of LASIK for people with astigmatism is very high. Many people with astigmatism have achieved 20/20 vision or better through these surgeries.
How can you get LASIK eye surgery?
If you decide to explore LASIK further, schedule a consultation with an eye doctor specializing in refractive surgery. They’ll thoroughly examine your eyes to assess your specific needs.
If you don’t want LASIK, they’ll discuss the different surgical options available. They can also address any concerns or questions about the procedure and recovery process.
Are there alternatives to LASIK?
Yes, LASIK isn’t the only option for correcting astigmatism. Your eye doctor may recommend corrective eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Meanwhile, orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is specially designed to temporarily reshape your cornea. It significantly improves your daytime vision without needing glasses or contact lenses. It’s particularly effective for mild to moderate astigmatism.
