Blurry vision can affect everything from reading road signs to working on a screen all day. Astigmatism is one of the most common vision problems among adults and families in Longmont, especially for those balancing work, outdoor activities, and digital habits. Many patients ask whether LASIK can help, and the answer is often yes.
At The Optical Centre, we help patients understand how LASIK and astigmatism treatment work together, what results to expect, and whether laser eye surgery fits their vision goals.
Astigmatism and Vision Problems
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape. Instead of being evenly curved, it bends light unevenly, which causes blurry or distorted vision at all distances. Common symptoms include:
- Blurry vision up close or far away
- Eye strain or headaches
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
- Squinting to focus
Astigmatism often appears alongside other refractive errors such as myopia and hyperopia. Many patients rely on glasses or contact lenses for years before considering surgical vision correction.
Can LASIK Fix Astigmatism?
Yes, LASIK eye surgery is commonly used to treat astigmatism. LASIK stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis and involves using laser technology to reshape the cornea, which may help light focus more accurately on the retina. Here’s what LASIK does to improve astigmatism:
1. Reshapes the Cornea
LASIK corrects astigmatism by smoothing uneven corneal curves. This allows light to focus properly, improving clarity.
2. Corrects Refractive Errors
LASIK works for astigmatism alone or when combined with myopia and hyperopia. The procedure corrects multiple refractive errors at once.
3. Short Procedure Time
Laser eye surgery typically takes less than 30 minutes. Most patients notice clearer vision within one to two days.
4. Long-Term Vision Improvement
Many patients achieve improved vision after LASIK surgery. Results are long-lasting, though natural aging may still affect near vision later in life.
5. Reduces Dependence on Glasses or Contacts
After LASIK, many patients no longer need corrective lenses for daily activities. This is especially appealing for active lifestyles common in Longmont.
Astigmatism Correction: LASIK vs. Glasses or Contact Lenses
Both options correct vision, but they do so in very different ways: LASIK aims to change how the eye focuses light, while glasses or contact lenses correct vision externally.
LASIK
- One-time vision correction procedure
- Minimal daily maintenance
- No lenses to clean or replace
- Higher upfront cost with long-term value
Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses
- Temporary vision correction
- Ongoing replacement and care
- Can worsen dry eye symptoms
- Long-term expenses add up
For patients seeking lasting freedom from corrective lenses, LASIK may be the better choice.
Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK With Astigmatism?
Not everyone qualifies for LASIK, which is why a detailed eye exam matters. You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a stable vision prescription
- Have healthy corneas and overall eye health
- Do not have uncontrolled eye disease
- Are not pregnant or nursing
Clearer Vision Starts Here: LASIK for Astigmatism in Longmont, CO
Choosing LASIK is a personal decision that begins with understanding your options. At The Optical Centre, we don’t perform LASIK procedures in-house, but we work closely with trusted local eye surgeons to provide co-management for patients considering LASIK for astigmatism.
Our role includes your initial evaluation, pre-operative care, and follow-up visits right here in Longmont, so you can stay connected with a team you know and trust throughout the process.
Book your comprehensive eye exam at The Optical Centre in Longmont, and we will help you determine if LASIK is right for you.
LASIK & Astigmatism FAQs
Can laser eye surgery fix astigmatism permanently?
While results may vary, LASIK reshapes the cornea to reduce astigmatism significantly. Results are long-lasting, though age-related changes can still affect vision later in life.
Can you get LASIK with astigmatism and myopia?
Yes. LASIK corrects multiple refractive errors in a single procedure.
Does LASIK work for severe astigmatism?
Some cases qualify, while others may need different refractive surgery options. A comprehensive eye examination determines eligibility.