Does LASIK Work for Astigmatism?

Ah, LASIK eye surgery. While a magnificent innovation in eye surgery to correct a variety of vision problems many questions about LASIK abound, particularly in regard to how long the positive results last. Consider, for example, astigmatism—one of the main vision problems that is fixed by LASIK.

Can I Get LASIK with Astigmatism?

In one word: YES. LASIK eye surgery is considered one of the best ways of permanently and effectively treating astigmatism. Astigmatism – even though it sounds serious- is simply a “refractive error” similar to nearsightedness or farsightedness. Meaning that lots of people have astigmatisms without even knowing it.

Do the results of LASIK last for Astigmatism?

Let’s backtrack for a moment and offer a brief explanation of astigmatism, which is a result of the cornea (the front of the eye) becoming more of an asymmetrical shape instead of its normally round curve. LASIK surgery is designed to remove the side effects associated with astigmatism, and can even remove your need for glasses or contacts for good. During the LASIK eye surgery, your surgeon uses a special laser that’s programmed to reshape the cornea to be more spherical, correcting the way that it will bend and focus light.

Questions—and answers—about the capabilities and effectiveness of LASIK tend to overlap, and many wonder about how long the outcome of a successful operation will remain. Where astigmatism is concerned—yes, we at SightMD can tell you with confidence that the results of a LASIK procedure are permanent.

Are There Types of Astigmatism that LASIK Can’t Fix?

Most patients who are good candidates for LASIK eye surgery will be able to proceed with laser eye surgery for astigmatism. It is important to keep in mind that while most types of astigmatism can be easily treated with LASIK eye surgery, there are a few that cannot such as an irregular astigmatism. 

During your free consultation, a qualified LASIK surgeon will determine if you’re a candidate for laser vision correction, depending on your type of astigmatism.

Are there other types of eye issues that LASIK can’t fix?

What must be kept in mind, however, is that while LASIK fixes astigmatism, it will not guard against other vision-related conditions that may develop later on in life. (This is an example of how questions and capabilities overlap. People may understandably think that if LASIK fixes one issue, such as astigmatism, then ever other eye problem is covered as well. No so.)

If you have been diagnosed with astigmatism and are considering LASIK surgery, your next step would be to find out if you are eligible to undergo the procedure. Conditions such as age and certain health issues may result in complications that would only increase vision problems. Your best option would be to connect with SightMD to find out more about LASIK surgery and if you are a candidate for this operation.