WHAT IS ASTIGMATISM?

Astigmatism is a finding that refers to the CURVATURE OF THE CORNEA (clear front part of the eye). In most cases you are born with astigmatism. It is very common. 

We divide the cornea into a vertical and horizontal axis.

When each axis focuses light equally, there is NO astigmatism and the cornea is considered to be spherical (or circular)

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ASTIGMATISM​

When one axis focuses light more than the other, you have astigmatism. The cornea is considered to be more

oval / football in shape

(these are microscopic changes that does not actually change the shape of the overall eye)

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Does astigmatism affect my vision? 

Astigmatism may affect your vision.

Symptoms can vary, including: ​​

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Blurry vision 

"Not sharp" vision

Shadowing of images

Haloes or starbursts around lights

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Can we correct astigmatism at the time of cataract surgery? ​​

Laser cataract surgery corrects most common levels of astigmatism

Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) correct higher levels of astigmatism 

These techniques are NOT covered by Medicare or commercial insurance plans. 

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How is astigmatism treated/corrected?

Astigmatism is automatically corrected in glasses prescription. You can also use special contact lenses called "toric" lenses.  ​

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UNCORRECTED

CORRECTED