Can LASIK Correct Astigmatism, Nearsightedness And Farsightedness?

Aug. 24, 2009— -- Question: Can LASIK correct astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness?

Answer: LASIK can be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, there are some limits to the degree of each of the components that can be treated. In nearsightedness, the central cornea is flattened using the laser, weakening its focusing power. In farsightedness, the laser pulses are applied to the periphery of the cornea, thereby steepening the cornea. And in astigmatism, the football-shaped cornea is in a fashion so that it winds up more spherically shaped, like a basketball. In each of these cases, the goal is to focus the incoming light so that it comes to a sharp point on the retina, achieving good visual outcome.