Can LASIK Treat Astigmatism?
Keen on getting LASIK done? Can LASIK treat astigmatism?
One of the common misconceptions is that LASIK can only treat myopia and not astigmatism.
This is untrue. LASIK is FDA-approved for astigmatism treatment.
What is astigmatism?
In a normal eye, the cornea is regularly shaped (like a baseball) and images are able to be focused directly on the retina.
In astigmatic eyes, the cornea is shaped irregularly (like an American football). As a result, images are focused on different points near the retina, causing blurred or multiple vision at all distances.
LASIK for Astigmatism
Can LASIK treat astigmatism? Yes.
In fact, LASIK is able to treat astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia and presbyopia (monovision LASIK).
During LASIK, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea to correct for refractive errors. This laser can be used to reshape the cornea to make it more symmetrical, thus treating astigmatism.
In most cases, LASIK is able to correct astigmatism of up to 3.0 diopters. If you have astigmatism that is above 3.0 diopters, it may still be able to be corrected through LASIK. However, we need to examine your overall eye condition before being able to give you a definite answer.
Alternatively, other treatments such as Implantable Contact Lenses are able to correct higher prescriptions of astigmatism and myopia.
Interest to get LASIK? Click here to read more about the treatment process, prices, and FAQs.