Eye
LASIK is a type of eye surgery that can correct common vision problems in most patients. It is the most common type of laser eye surgery performed in the United States. While the surgery has a high success rate, it is not recommended for all patients. The Eye Surgery Education Council Medical Advisory Board has outlined specific guidelines defining ideal, less-than-ideal and non-LASIK candidates. Individuals with astigmatism are included in the list of ideal candidates for LASIK.
LASIK surgery background
LASIK stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis. During a LASIK procedure, a surgeon will use a laser to reshape the cornea, the cornea is the clear top layer of eye tissue. This reshaping is a permanent change and is performed to improve a patient's vision, reducing or eliminating the need for corrective eyewear like eyeglasses or contacts. For most patients, LASIK surgery is painless and quick. Patients are generally in surgery for an hour or less and are able to see without corrective eyewear within a day.
Before undergoing any kind of surgery, including LASIK, the patient and surgeon should have a detailed discussion of the risks and benefits of the procedure. The surgeon should clearly explain the expected outcomes of the surgery and ensure that the patient understands these.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a very common eye disorder that affects most individuals to some degree; it's identified by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Unless astigmatism is paired with another eye disorder, such as a vision problem like nearsightedness, it typically goes unnoticed. Individuals with serious astigmatism may suffer from blurred vision, which can lead to headaches. Eyeglasses, contact lenses and laser surgery are all used to correct the condition.
Ideal candidates for LASIK surgery
Candidates that respond the best to LASIK surgery are older than 18 years old; have had the same eye correction prescription for at least two years; suffer from a common vision problem like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or a combination of these; and are free from diseases, including vision diseases.
Some candidates for LASIK surgery are not ideal, but will still realize adequate results in most cases. These candidates may suffer from dry eye condition, have a disease or immunosuppressive condition or have a scarred cornea.
Some people may eventually be considered good candidates: those under 18 or those with changing eye correction prescriptions within the last two years, who suffer from eye disease, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who display serious vision errors.
The only individuals who should not consider LASIK are those that suffer from serious eye disease like cataracts or glaucoma.
Before any LASIK treatment, a physician should evaluate the patient to determine whether she is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
