Understanding Astigmatism and How It Affects Refractive Surgery
Understanding Astigmatism and How It Affects Refractive Surgery
- posted: Oct. 22, 2025
Individuals considering vision correction need to understand astigmatism before undergoing any refractive surgery. At Eye Associates, serving San Antonio, Boerne, and Kerrville, TX, we work closely with patients to assess their vision needs, evaluate corneal shape, and determine the best treatment options. Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can significantly influence surgical outcomes, making proper evaluation essential for safety and success.
What is Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular curvature, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina. This irregular shape results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, astigmatism affects the clarity of vision both near and far, and often exists alongside other refractive errors, which can complicate treatment planning.
Types of Astigmatism
There are two main types of astigmatism: corneal and lenticular. Corneal astigmatism originates from the cornea’s uneven curvature, while lenticular astigmatism comes from irregularities in the lens inside the eye. Both types can cause vision disturbances, and the condition often develops during childhood and can change over time.
Impact on Refractive Surgery
Astigmatism affects refractive surgery by influencing how the cornea is reshaped to correct vision. Accurate measurements of corneal curvature and axis are necessary to achieve optimal results and reduce the risk of residual refractive errors. Procedures like LASIK and PRK can correct certain levels of astigmatism, but higher degrees may require specialized approaches, including toric intraocular lenses or additional laser treatments.
Planning and Assessment
Proper preoperative assessment ensures that patients with astigmatism receive personalized treatment plans. Our ophthalmologists use advanced imaging, corneal mapping, and precise measurements to determine the best surgical method. Careful planning minimizes complications and enhances postoperative visual clarity, allowing patients to experience the best possible outcomes.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing blurred or distorted vision, contact Eye Associates, serving San Antonio, Boerne, and Kerrville, TX, to schedule a comprehensive exam. Our team will perform an evaluation and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs. When you need an ophthalmologist near you, you can rely on our dedicated professionals.
Understanding Astigmatism and How It Affects Refractive Surgery
- posted: Oct. 22, 2025
Individuals considering vision correction need to understand astigmatism before undergoing any refractive surgery. At Eye Associates, serving San Antonio, Boerne, and Kerrville, TX, we work closely with patients to assess their vision needs, evaluate corneal shape, and determine the best treatment options. Astigmatism is a common refractive error that can significantly influence surgical outcomes, making proper evaluation essential for safety and success.
What is Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular curvature, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina. This irregular shape results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, astigmatism affects the clarity of vision both near and far, and often exists alongside other refractive errors, which can complicate treatment planning.
Types of Astigmatism
There are two main types of astigmatism: corneal and lenticular. Corneal astigmatism originates from the cornea’s uneven curvature, while lenticular astigmatism comes from irregularities in the lens inside the eye. Both types can cause vision disturbances, and the condition often develops during childhood and can change over time.
Impact on Refractive Surgery
Astigmatism affects refractive surgery by influencing how the cornea is reshaped to correct vision. Accurate measurements of corneal curvature and axis are necessary to achieve optimal results and reduce the risk of residual refractive errors. Procedures like LASIK and PRK can correct certain levels of astigmatism, but higher degrees may require specialized approaches, including toric intraocular lenses or additional laser treatments.
Planning and Assessment
Proper preoperative assessment ensures that patients with astigmatism receive personalized treatment plans. Our ophthalmologists use advanced imaging, corneal mapping, and precise measurements to determine the best surgical method. Careful planning minimizes complications and enhances postoperative visual clarity, allowing patients to experience the best possible outcomes.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing blurred or distorted vision, contact Eye Associates, serving San Antonio, Boerne, and Kerrville, TX, to schedule a comprehensive exam. Our team will perform an evaluation and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs. When you need an ophthalmologist near you, you can rely on our dedicated professionals.
We are here to help.
Locations
San Antonio
5430 Fredericksburg Road
San Antonio, TX 78229