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Can LASIK Be Done for People with Irregular Astigmatism?

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Astigmatism is a refractive error where an irregularly shaped cornea or lens distorts the light focusing on the retina, leading to blurred vision. Many wonder if traditional LASIK is suitable for irregular astigmatism. In this blog, we'll explore the possibilities of LASIK for astigmatism in individuals with irregularly shaped corneas, as well as alternative treatments like Contoura LASIK.

Understanding Regular and Irregular Astigmatism

Regular Astigmatism

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is not perfectly symmetrical, but rather more curved like a rugby ball. This irregular shape affects how light focuses on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. Regular astigmatism is common and can often be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction (LASIK).

Irregular Astigmatism

Irregular astigmatism arises from an asymmetrical or non-uniform corneal shape. Common causes include keratoconus, corneal scarring, or trauma. Unlike regular astigmatism, this type can be more challenging to correct with glasses or traditional LASIK.

Can LASIK Treat Irregular Astigmatism?

Despite the fact that the normal LASIK procedure is intended to eliminate corneal irregularity and correct refractive errors, it is not always effective for patients with irregular astigmatism. Still, the current development in laser technology has enabled surgeons to manage some cases of irregular astigmatism through special approaches.

Advanced LASIK Techniques for Irregular Astigmatism

  • Contoura LASIK: This is an enhanced LASIK that is referred to as topography-guided, which means that the eye surgeon creates a map of the cornea. These imperfections are targeted by Contoura LASIK to give better visual results and higher accuracy than what LASIK offers.
  • Wavefront-Guided LASIK: This technique adapts the laser treatment to the optical aberration of the eye and can be a potential solution for irregular astigmatism in some cases.

Who Is a Candidate for LASIK for Irregular Astigmatism?

Candidates for LASIK for astigmatism, including irregular astigmatism, typically meet the following criteria:

  • No change in the vision prescription for the last one year.
  • The corneal thickness is adequate to permit alteration during the procedure.
  • No pre-existing ocular pathologies as severe forms of keratoconus or advanced dry eye disease.

LASIK surgery must be performed only by a qualified LASIK specialist who will assess the patient’s applicability and suggest an appropriate procedure.

Benefits of LASIK for Astigmatism

1. Improved Vision Clarity
The quality of vision after the operation for patients with regular or mild irregular astigmatism is improved, and the need for glasses or contact lenses is minimized.
2. Customized Treatment
Contoura LASIK is one such sophisticated method that provides individualised care, as it tends to each imperfection on the cornea surface.
3. Quick Recovery
The majority of LASIK patients can expect to see dramatic and measurable improvement of their vision within a day or two after the procedure with little or no discomfort.
4. Long-Term Results
LASIK offers permanent reformation of astigmatism; however, patients are advised to visit the eye doctor for eye examinations.

Alternatives to LASIK for Irregular Astigmatism
 

alternatives-to-lasik-for-irregular-astigmatism

For individuals who are not candidates for LASIK, other options include:

  • Contact Lenses: There are specific types of lenses including scleral or rigid GP lenses that fit irregular corneal shapes.
  • Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL): A surgical procedure where the lens of the eye is replaced by an intraocular lens to correct refractory disorders.
  • Corneal Cross-Linking: In patients with keratoconus, this procedure helps to increase the mechanical stability of the cornea and stop the development of the disease.

Why Choose a Trusted Eye Specialist?

Given the precision required for LASIK and advanced procedures like Contoura LASIK, it's crucial to select a clinic with highly experienced surgeons. For residents of Coimbatore, The Eye Foundation, a leading eye hospital in Coimbatore, offers comprehensive LASIK evaluations and treatment solutions, including Contoura LASIK. Our team is dedicated to providing the safest and most effective vision correction options tailored to your individual needs.

Final Thoughts

Irregular astigmatism can be a little tricky to manage, but with recent solutions such as LASIK for astigmatism and Contoura LASIK for candidates who are suitable for the procedure. Going to see a specialist is the first thing to do to know what can be done for your situation and what will work best for you.

Expert LASIK Care at The Eye Foundation

Thinking about getting LASIK or have questions about if you’re a good candidate? The Eye Foundation provides the best of technology and individual attention to ensure you see clearly and comfortably.

Don’t wait until it is too late; Book an appointment today and change your eye health for the better!

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