What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is often found in combination with shortsightedness (myopic astigmatism) and farsightedness (hyperopic astigmatism). Sometimes it exists without an overall refractive error (mixed astigmatism) which can also affect the ability to see clearly.

Astigmatism is a result of the cornea being shaped like a rugby ball instead of a soccer ball. There are two curvatures resulting in different points of focus in the eye.  If these do not fall on the retina, then the result will be blurred vision.

Correcting Astigmatism

Astigmatism can be corrected predictably and effectively by IntraLASIK laser eye surgery at Centre for Sight and works by flattening elevated areas of the cornea and steepening depressed areas. The combination of the two is extremely powerful in the correction of astigmatism and is the basis for successful treatment of high levels described below.

Astigmatism of up to 5.0 dioptres are treated using laser eye surgery. Using Iris Recognition and Registration technology incorporated in the Advanced Control Eyetracker (ACE) in combination with Zyoptix Wavefront. Predictability of this type of treatment is extremely good. The advantage of the Zyoptix Wavefront customised treatment is that only the area that needs treatment is corrected and in exactly the right place.

Higher levels can be treated and using software and treatment algorithms designed at Centre for Sight, levels of up to 12 dioptres in those who have previously had corneal transplants have been treated successfully. Suitability of this level of correction, like all surgery needs to be established by the operating surgeon. Involved in the care of those who have had Corneal Transplants, Centre for Sight has considerable knowledge of corneal shape and experienced in treating high levels of astigmatism. It is not just the technology but knowledge on how to use the technology that is important – this is the Centre for Sight difference !

Sometimes other options may be offered including implantation of a phakic lens (Artisan/Veriseyes or the Implantable Contact Lens - ICL). These lenses are custom made with built in astigmatic correction (toric) and implanted into the eye.

“Obtaining good outcomes is not just dependent on Technology,
but the Knowledge and Expertise on how to use that Technology”