Laser Eye Surgery with Astigmatism

Published on 10th August 2016 by Mr Manoj Mathai

Can I have laser eye surgery if I have astigmatism?

If you have astigmatism, YES you can have laser eye surgery but it all depends upon the degree of the astigmatism. You will need to have your consultation with one of our surgeons to determine if you are a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, therefore in the first instance it is best to get in touch with us to book an appointment.

Why is my vision blurred? 

Astigmatism can cause blurred vision. In this case there will be numbers recorded in the ‘cylinder’ and ‘axis’ parts of your prescription. People who have astigmatism in the first place can often not focus very well at distance or up close, however laser eye surgery can correct this and allow you to see clearer.

What is astigmatism?

Having astigmatism means that the eye isn't perfectly round (like a marble or a ping pong ball). If you held a football in your left hand and a rugby ball in your right hand - just imagine all the subtle changes in shape to get from one shape to the other - that is a good way of imagining the varying degrees of astigmatism.

Most people DO have astigmatism and there are very few people with perfectly round eyes. Most people have a degree of astigmatism, but it might just mean that their eyeball is just slightly off being perfectly round. For the eyeball to be rugby ball shaped would mean quite extreme astigmatism.

If you have a copy of your most recent eye test, call one of our patient advisors and they will be able to tell you if you are within the treatable range.

All eye surgical procedures carry a level of risk including not obtaining the desired outcome, through to varying levels of visual loss. Your eye surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits, including ones specific to your circumstances, at the time of your pre-operative consultation.