Which Laser Eye Surgery Treats Astigmatism?

Astigmatism, a common refractive error, can make it challenging to focus clearly on objects at any distance. Thankfully, modern laser eye surgeries offer effective treatments to correct this condition. If you’ve been wondering which procedure is right for you, this guide will explore the options and their suitability for treating astigmatism.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision. Instead of being perfectly round, an eye with astigmatism resembles a football, leading to uneven light refraction. This condition can occur on its own or alongside nearsightedness or farsightedness. Symptoms include blurred vision, eyestrain, and headaches, which can significantly impact daily activities like reading or driving.

Which Laser Eye Surgery Treats Astigmatism?

All three popular laser eye surgery options can effectively treat astigmatism. These procedures reshape the cornea to correct its irregular curvature, allowing light to focus properly on the retina.

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): SMILE uses a laser to create and remove a small piece of corneal tissue (lenticule) through a tiny incision. It is minimally invasive, making it an excellent option for most people and our most commonly used treatment. SMILE effectively treats astigmatism up to a certain degree.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): During LASIK, a small flap is created on the cornea, and a laser reshapes the underlying tissue to correct the refractive error. LASIK is effective for mild to moderate astigmatism and offers rapid recovery.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is a surface-based procedure where the corneal epithelium is removed before reshaping the cornea with a laser. It’s suitable for patients with thinner corneas or those who are not LASIK candidates. PRK also provides excellent outcomes for astigmatism, though recovery time is slightly longer.

Which Type of Laser Eye Surgery is Best for Me?

The ideal procedure depends on several factors, including the severity of your astigmatism, corneal thickness, lifestyle, and eye health. A comprehensive evaluation by an experienced ophthalmologist is essential to determine which surgery suits your needs.

• SMILE is our most commonly recommended procedure due to its safety and effectiveness for the vast majority of vision correction needs. 
• LASIK may be used as an alternative to SMILE for people with certain prescriptions or other needs. 
• PRK is often the choice for those with thinner corneas or specific eye conditions.

What are the Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism?

Laser eye surgery offers numerous benefits, including:

• Improved vision clarity by correcting the cornea’s shape.
• Quick recovery times, especially with LASIK and SMILE.
• Long-term results for astigmatism correction.
• Freedom from glasses or contact lenses, enhancing convenience and confidence.

If you’re ready to say goodbye to blurry vision, consult a trusted eye care provider to explore your options and take the first step toward clear, unaided sight!

Take the Next Step

To learn more about laser eye surgery for astigmatism, please schedule your consultation by either filling out the form on this page or by calling (866) 458-1545. We look forward to helping you!