LASIK for astigmatism correction
LASIK cannot be used to treat lenticular astigmatism, though the lens can be exchanged for a plastic or silicon one through Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) to improve vision.
LASIK procedures approved by the FDA for treatment of corneal astigmatism include:
- Traditional LASIK
- Wavefront-guided LASIK or custom LASIK surgery.
Traditional LASIK for astigmatism
In traditional LASIK astigmatism correction, a suction ring is placed over the eye to prevent it from moving and a LASIK eye surgeon cuts a thin round flap in the surface of the cornea using a device called a microkeratome.
After creating the flap, the suction ring is removed and the flap is lifted and folded back so that the underlying corneal tissue is revealed. A laser is used to vaporize small areas of this underlying tissue to create a more spherical shape. The tissue is then covered with the flap again. Though no stitches are required, a shield or clear bandage is typically placed over the eye to prevent you from rubbing it or putting pressure on it. The cornea heals quickly and many experience improvement in vision and a decrease in astigmatism within days after surgery.
Wavefront-guided LASIK or custom LASIK for astigmatism
In wavefront-guided LASIK or custom LASIK astigmatism correction, a computerized device is used to shine light at the eye, calculating irregularities in the surface of the eye based on the way the wavefront of light is bounced back. The computer can model the exact shape of your cornea and will determine the path a laser, such as a VISX S4 excimer laser, should follow to smooth irregularities in the cornea that are causing blurred vision.
Wavefront-guided LASIK is more likely to result in 20/20 vision or better than traditional LASIK. However, wavefront-guided or custom LASIK is not for everyone. You should contact a skilled LASIK eye surgeon to determine if this is your best option.
Some tips before, during, and after LASIK astigmatism correction surgery
If you wear contact lens to correct your astigmatism, you probably want to switch to eye glasses for a few weeks before seeing your LASIK surgeon for an evaluation. Contacts can change the shape of your cornea and you want your LASIK eye surgeon to evaluate your natural eye shape.
On the day before surgery, you should avoid using any creams, makeup, perfume or any other product that can cause buildup of chemicals along your eyelashes, since this can increase risk for infection.
You should arrange for transportation before and after your surgery. If you're on medication to help you relax for the LASIK surgery, your driving may be impaired. After the procedure, your eyesight will probably be blurry, making driving hazardous.
After the surgery, you may experience:
- Blurred vision
- Itching
- Discomfort
- Tearing
- Difficulty driving at night
- Glare or haloes
- Fluctuations in vision
For more information, visit http://www.eyevisionimprovement.com/
