Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of being perfectly round like a basketball, the cornea may be shaped more like a football, creating uneven focusing of light on the retina. This irregularity results in distorted or blurred vision at all distances, making everyday tasks like reading or driving more challenging.

Astigmatism often occurs in combination with other refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). Symptoms can include blurred vision, eye strain, headaches, and difficulty focusing on objects both near and far.

Limbal relaxing incisions are a precise and minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. During the procedure, small incisions are made along the cornea’s outer edges (the limbus). These incisions relax the cornea’s irregular curvature, allowing it to assume a more spherical shape. This reshaping corrects the way light enters the eye, improving focus and enhancing overall vision clarity.

Limbal relaxing incisions offer several advantages for individuals seeking relief from astigmatism:

• Precise correction: LRIs are tailored to address each patient’s unique corneal irregularities.
• Minimally invasive: The procedure involves only small incisions, reducing the risks and recovery time associated with more invasive surgeries.
• Enhanced vision: By improving the cornea’s symmetry, LRIs provide sharper, clearer vision.

Quick recovery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort and a swift return to normal activities.

At Clarity Eye Group, we understand that every patient’s experience with astigmatism is unique. Our specialists begin with a thorough examination to assess the severity of the condition and determine the most effective treatment plan. Limbal relaxing incisions are one of several advanced options we offer to help patients achieve improved visual outcomes. LASIK and PRK may also help patients overcome astigmatism to limit dependence on prescription eyewear. 

For those seeking non-surgical solutions, our team also provides corrective lenses, including toric contact lenses and specialized eyeglasses designed to counteract the effects of astigmatism. These options are ideal for patients with mild to moderate astigmatism or those who prefer non-invasive treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Astigmatism

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a refractive error that causes blurry, distorted vision. It is characterized by abnormal curvature of the cornea, the front cover of the eye. A normal cornea is evenly curved and has a round shape like a basketball. A corneal with astigmatism is unevenly curved with an oval shape, similar to a football. Because of the irregular curvature, light is unevenly focused inside the eye and does not focus properly on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

Does astigmatism affect the health of my eyes?

No. Astigmatism strictly affects vision and is not a threat to ocular health.

Why do I have astigmatism?

Astigmatism is extremely common. Nearly everyone has a slight degree of astigmatism, but often it is not severe enough to affect vision. Only moderate to severe astigmatism requires correction.

You may be born with astigmatism, or it may develop after a traumatic eye injury or eye surgery. Serious cases of astigmatism are linked to a degenerative corneal condition called keratoconus, which causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward.

Is there anything I can do to prevent astigmatism?

No, astigmatism cannot be prevented. But fortunately, it is easily corrected.

What are the symptoms of astigmatism?

Astigmatism causes blurry vision at all distances. It can also cause visual distortions; some people with astigmatism describe their vision as similar to what you would see if you looked into a funhouse mirror at a carnival. The blurriness and distortion depends on the severity of the astigmatism.

Other symptoms of astigmatism include eyestrain, headaches and squinting from trying to focus on near or distant objects.

Can astigmatism improve or worsen over time?

Astigmatism can slowly improve or worsen over time. In rare cases in which it steadily gets worse over time, it may be indicative of keratoconus. If you are diagnosed with astigmatism, be sure to get annual eye exams to monitor it.

How is astigmatism diagnosed?

Astigmatism is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. An exam usually includes a visual acuity test using an eye chart as well as the use of special instruments to measure the cornea’s curvature and evaluate how the eye focuses light. The information gathered during the exam helps our doctors determine whether you have astigmatism and if so, the power of lens correction needed for clearer vision.

What are the treatment options for astigmatism?

For many years, glasses were the only viable way to correct for astigmatism. Nowadays, there are several treatment solutions. Glasses are still used and modern contact lenses are designed to provide clear, stable vision. For permanent correction, limbal relaxing incisions can reshape the cornea to properly focus incoming light onto the retina. Another permanent surgical solution is laser vision correction, which uses laser energy to improve the curvature of the cornea.

If you are diagnosed with astigmatism, our doctors will explain the available treatment options and help you decide what is right for your specific circumstances.

If you would like to learn more about astigmatism correction in Orange County, please contact Clarity Eye Group today to schedule a personal consultation with one of our talented cataracts and LASIK Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and Orange County surgeons.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options for astigmatism correction. Let our team of Orange County’s leading eye care specialists help you take the first step toward clearer vision. Contact Clarity Eye Group at 714-842-0651 to begin your journey to better eye health.