LASIK and Astigmatism, Are You A Candidate?

Have you heard the rumor that you are not a good LASIK candidate because you have Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped – more like an oval rather than the ideal, a circle. As a result, the eye cannot properly focus light on the retina (the back of the eye). Instead, astigmatism forces light to focus on areas in front of and/or behind the retina, causing blurry or distorted vision at all distances – a sure source of frustration for those who want to see more clearly!

Fortunately, LASIK vision correction can re-shape the “football” or oval shaped cornea of astigmatism into more of a “basketball” or circular shape, allowing light to properly focus on the retina and provide clear vision –a procedure that takes just minutes per eye. Advances in LASIK technology have made vision correction a viable option for more people than ever before.

However, LASIK may not the best option for all patients with astigmatism. For example, your corneas may be too thin to support the procedure, or you may have a medical condition that could interfere with healing. In those cases, an alternative to LASIK (such as PRK) might be more appropriate.

The only way to know for sure if you are a good candidate for LASIK vision correction, contact Rochester Eye and Laser Center for a free, no-obligation LASIK consultation with LASIK surgeon Dr. Kenneth Lindahl. You can schedule your consultation online and also take our online LASIK Self-Evaluation. Or call our friendly office at 585-232-2560 for more information. Take time now to find out how you can conquer astigmatism and find better vision!