Is LASIK an Effective Treatment for Astigmatism?
Patients of Primary Eye Care Associates know that they are receiving some of the finest vision correction services in the greater Chicago area. This assurance is of particular importance when it comes to LASIK surgery, a laser vision correction option perfect for treating refractive errors.
A number of patients have wondered if LASIK iss a good option for treating astigmatism. Let's go into these matters in a bit of detail right now.
About Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a vision issue caused by the eye's inability to focus on an object properly. It is a common form of refractive error, one that often accompanies other refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia).
With astigmatism, and issue with the cornea (the clear frontal portion of the eye) or the lens results in light focusing improperly on the retina (the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye). This often means light is focuses in two points rather than just one point on the retina. When this happens, the vision is blurry.
Signs and Symptoms of Astigmatism
Common signs and symptoms of astigmatism include:
- Fuzzy or distorted vision
- Issues with vision at night
- Eyestrain
- Frequent squinting
- Irritation of the eyes
- Headaches
If you notice any issues with diminished vision quality, be sure to visit an eye care specialist or your general practitioner for an eye exam.
About LASIK Surgery
LASIK is a laser eye surgery that is perfect for treating refractive errors. During LASIK surgery, a small flap is created on the corneal surface. The flap is lifted and a laser is used to reshape the cornea so that light is properly focused on the retina.
LASIK Is an Effective Option for Various Refractive Errors
LASIK is a highly effective treatment option for all refractive errors. Patients who undergo LASIK are able to see clearly without the need for glasses and contact lenses. Thanks to advances in technology, custom LASIK surgery has allowed more and more people to achieve perfect or nearly perfect vision.
Ideal Candidates for LASIK Surgery
The best candidates for LASIK surgery are people who are at least 18 years old, have regularly shaped corneas, have had a stable prescription for a year, and have not had an eye infection or eye injury in the last year. The ideal candidate should not be pregnant or nursing, and they should not suffer from dry eye syndrome either.
It's important that LASIK candidates have realistic expectations about the procedure and what it can achieve, knowing all of the risks and benefits involved in the LASIK process and what the recovery period will be like.
Is LASIK the best option for me and my vision?
LASIK may be an ideal option to consider, but there are plenty of considerations to keep in mind. If LASIK is not a good option due to corneal shape issues, there are other laser eye surgery options that may be helpful, such as PRK or LASEK. Those who are ineligible for any kind of eye surgery will need to rely on corrective lenses.
Learn More About LASIK Surgery
To learn more about LASIK and how it can help you see clearly without the need for glasses or contact lenses, be sure to contact our laser vision correction and eye care center today. The team at Primary Eye Care Associates will work closely with you to ensure your vision is a clear as possible.