LASIK Eye Surgery for Astigmatism in Chicago, IL

What Is Astigmatism?

‍Astigmatism is a common type of refractive error like myopia or hyperopia. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is unevenly shaped. Instead of being spherical in shape, the cornea or lens is shaped more like a football, rather than a basketball. This irregularity causes the light that enters the eye to fall on two different focal points, resulting in blurred vision. Some symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurry vision;
• Poor night vision;
• Squinting;
• Eye pain;
• Frequent headaches.

Astigmatism is often present along with other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia. Many people have astigmatism and are not even aware of it because the symptoms can be so subtle.

Can LASIK Fix Astigmatism?

Can you get LASIK with astigmatism? The simple answer is yes, people with astigmatism are likely to be great candidates for LASIK. LASIK can be used successfully to treat most people who have astigmatism, as long as it falls within the parameters of the treatment limits. The LASIK procedure will utilize the same laser that treats myopia and hyperopia to make the cornea more spherical, allowing light to properly fall on the retina, resulting in significant vision improvements. With the use of the most advanced technology in the industry, we are able to safely and successfully treat very high levels of astigmatism.

Who Is a Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery for Astigmatism?

Not everyone with astigmatism is a good candidate for LASIK surgery. Here are some factors that  make a person a suitable candidate for LASIK for astigmatism:

• Age: Patients should be at least 18 years old to ensure that their vision has stabilized.
• Corneal thickness: A sufficient amount of corneal tissue is necessary for LASIK surgery to be performed safely. If you have thin corneas, you may qualify for other laser procedures.
• Astigmatism severity: Patients with mild to moderate astigmatism typically achieve the best outcomes.
• Good overall eye health: Individuals should have healthy eyes and no eye diseases, infections, or injuries.
• Realistic expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of what LASIK can and cannot achieve.

There are also some limitations to LASIK for astigmatism, such as:

• Not everyone will achieve perfect vision after LASIK.
• LASIK is not recommended for patients with thin or irregular corneas.

It is important to consult with an experienced eye surgeon to determine if LASIK for astigmatism is right for you.

LASIK Vision Correction Procedure for Astigmatism

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular surgical procedure for correcting refractive errors such as astigmatism. Here is the step-by-step process for treating astigmatism:

1. Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient’s eyes are numbed with anesthetic eye drops. An eyelid speculum is used to gently keep the eye open during the surgery.
2. Corneal flap creation: The surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a thin flap on the surface of the cornea. The flap is lifted and folded back to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
3. Tissue removal: An excimer laser is used to remove a precise amount of corneal tissue, reshaping the cornea to correct the astigmatism. The laser is guided by a computer that takes into account the patient’s individual eye measurements and the surgeon’s customized treatment plan.
4. Flap repositioning: After the tissue has been removed, the surgeon will gently reposition the flap over the treated area. The flap adheres to the cornea on its own, eliminating the need for sutures.
5. Recovery: After the procedure, the patient is given eye drops and protective eye shields to wear over their eyes to aid in the healing process. Most patients experience improved vision within the first day or two following surgery, with full recovery taking several weeks.

LASIK for astigmatism is generally considered safe and effective, with a high success rate in reducing or eliminating astigmatism and improving visual acuity. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential complications and risks involved that should be discussed with the surgeon beforehand.

How Effective Is LASIK Surgery for Astigmatism?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a highly effective treatment for astigmatism. Here are some of the benefits of LASIK for treating astigmatism:

• High success rate: The majority of patients who undergo LASIK for astigmatism achieve better vision, if not 20/20.
• Long-lasting results: The effects of LASIK for astigmatism are typically permanent, with many patients experiencing improved vision for the rest of their lives.
• Minimal downtime: Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
• Reduced dependence on corrective lenses: After LASIK for astigmatism, many patients no longer need to rely on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly.

Of course, as with any medical procedure, individual results may vary. Some patients can experience complications or require additional treatment after the initial procedure. It is important to consult with an experienced eye surgeon to determine if LASIK for astigmatism is right for you and to discuss realistic outcomes and any potential risks or limitations.