Will LASIK Cure My Astigmatism?

by Dr. Vincent Marino, D.O.

If you’re having eye-related issues (like getting headaches, having difficulty seeing, or experiencing sensitivity to light) you might be a little freaked out. Changes in vision can be worrisome, but chances are it’s nothing serious. You probably have astigmatism- one of the leading eye complications in the United States.

But the good news is, there’s nothing to worry about! Astigmatisms are the easiest, most common eye conditions to treat, and are often effectively eradicated with a simple LASIK procedure.

Can I Get LASIK with Astigmatism?

Astigmatism – even though it sounds serious- is simply a “refractive error” similar to nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Lots of people have astigmatisms without even knowing it. Oftentimes, this condition isn’t serious enough for the patient to notice any side effects. So, if only a small amount of astigmatism is present, laser correction may not be necessary.

In some cases, though, the effects are severe enough to alter the patient’s way of life. If this describes you, LASIK might be the perfect option.

Does LASIK Work for Astigmatism?

The short answer is: yes! LASIK surgery is considered one of the best ways of permanently and effectively treating astigmatism.

Astigmatism is the result of the cornea (the front of the eye) becoming more of an asymmetrical shape instead of its normally round curve. During the LASIK procedure, a LasikPlus surgeon- who has mastered the art of LASIK surgery- uses a special laser that’s programmed to reshape the cornea to be more spherical, correcting the way that it will bend and focus light.

LASIK surgery is designed to remove the side effects associated with astigmatism, and can even remove your need for glasses or contacts for good.

Are There Types of Astigmatism that LASIK Can’t Fix?

Most patients who are good candidates for LASIK will be able to proceed with laser eye surgery for astigmatism. But while most types of astigmatism can be easily treated with LASIK surgery, there are a few that cannot. For example, irregular astigmatism may not be able to be corrected by LASIK.

During your free 60-90 minute consultation, a qualified LASIK specialist will determine if you’re a candidate for laser vision correction, depending on your type of astigmatism.

Will Your Insurance Cover the Cost of LASIK for Astigmatism?

Insurance companies consider LASIK for astigmatism an “elective treatment,” no matter how necessary the procedure is.

But don’t lose hope! LasikPlus offers LASIK discounts through most insurance & vision plans. Head over to our Insurance Plans page to see if your provider is listed.

Our financial coordinator will be able to help you during your free LASIK examination, to check your insurance to determine which discount you may be able to apply, and can assist in filing the claim on our behalf if an allowance pertains.

After Getting LASIK for my Astigmatism, How Long Will it Take to Recover?

While most of the patients who get LASIK for astigmatism notice a difference right away, it usually takes your eyes about three to six months to fully recover and heal.

To ensure that you make a safe and full recovery, and to prevent any unforeseen complications, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-LASIK instructions as close as possible.

Even though there are types of astigmatism that LASIK can’t treat, you always have options- and the team at LasikPlus is here to help! Call us today (877) 679-4937 to talk with a licensed professional and see if LASIK is the right choice for you.