is lasik surgery something for you to consider?

For people with astigmatism, the idea of clear vision without glasses or contacts can seem like a far-off dream. But the reality is that with advances in technology, Lasik surgery can now correct astigmatism and provide excellent visual outcomes. If you're considering Lasik to address your astigmatism, it's important to understand what the procedure involves, the benefits, and the potential risks.

What Is Astigmatism?

What is astigmatism, anyway? It's a relatively common eye condition caused by an uneven curving of the cornea or the eye's lens, resulting in blurry or distorted vision. While glasses or contacts can work to correct the issue, some people find these solutions uncomfortable, inconvenient, or aesthetically unappealing. That's where Lasik comes in — it's a surgical procedure that effectively reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors and improve vision.

Can You Get Laser Eye Surgery?

If you have astigmatism, the initial consultation with your ophthalmologist or Lasik surgeon will involve a thorough eye exam, including measurements of your prescription and corneal topography. This will help determine the extent of your astigmatism and whether Lasik is a viable option for you. It's important to have realistic expectations — Lasik can correct astigmatism, but it's not a guarantee of perfect vision. Most patients experience significant improvement, but some residual astigmatism may remain.

About Lasik Procedures

The Lasik procedure itself typically lasts around several minutes per eye and involves creating a small flap in the cornea using a laser. The surgeon then reshapes the underlying cornea to correct for your specific prescription and closes the flap, allowing your eye to heal naturally. While the prospect of having a laser aimed at your eye may sound intimidating, the procedure is typically painless and requires only numbing eye drops.

After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or blurred vision as your eye heals. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions for post-operative care, including using eye drops as prescribed and avoiding certain activities (such as swimming or wearing eye makeup) for a period of time. Most patients experience noticeably significant improvement in their vision within a few days to a week after surgery, and the benefits can last a lifetime.

Benefits of Lasik 

So, what are the benefits of Lasik for those with astigmatism? Firstly, it can provide a more convenient and lifestyle-friendly solution than glasses or contacts. Imagine being able to wake up and immediately see the world without reaching for your glasses — or being able to swim, play sports, or travel without worrying about losing or damaging your contacts. Additionally, Lasik can provide improved peripheral vision, better visual acuity, and a wider range of focus than some other corrective devices.

For more info about Lasik, contact a local company.