Taking the 'Stigma' out of Astigmatism
by David A. Wallace MD
Astigmatism is one of those strange terms that most people don't understand, so it sounds intimidating when you are told that you have it. It doesn't help that prescription contact lenses cost significantly more if astigmatism is present. Let's clear up some of this confusion.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism describes optical blur that arises when the curvature of an optical surface is "out of round". This irregular curvature can occur on the cornea or on the lens.
 Astigmatism: Blur, Ghosting, Slight Doubling or "Drop-Shadow". © 2002 Robert Meyers Studio. |
What are Astigmatism Symptoms?
Optical blurring, ghosting, slight doubling or drop-shadow effects result from having astigmatism. Most people only know they have astigmatism because their eye doctor has measured them for glasses or contacts and has told them they have this condition.
How is Astigmatism Treated?
Regular astigmatism may be corrected through:
Lenses called 'toric lenses' are prescribed to correct astigmatism. LASIK, when properly rendered with modern lasers, can beautifully correct regular astigmatism.
Cataract and Clear Lens Replacement patients who have astigmatism can be treated with a toric Intra-Ocular lens (IOL) implant during cataract surgery to correct pre-existing astigmatism.
Irregular astigmatism, affecting 1% of people, is a more serious condition. This is more challenging to treat and is discussed in detail on our High Astigmatism page.
Dr. Wallace has performed literally thousands of surgical treatments for astigmatism and will review your case carefully to recommend and treat you with the very best solution for your visual goals.
Contact our office today at (310) 828-2020, or
Contact Us online to request a free astigmatism-correction consultation.