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Understanding Astigmatism

Astigmatism is one of the most common causes of blurred vision, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape, more like a football than a basketball, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina. This uneven curvature leads to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. At Maloney-Shamie-Hura Vision Institute, our surgeons specialize in diagnosing and correcting astigmatism through customized treatment plans. Using advanced diagnostic imaging, we precisely measure the curvature of your cornea and identify the root cause of visual distortion. Our comprehensive approach allows us to correct even complex cases through glasses, contact lenses, or advanced surgical procedures such as LASIK, PRK, or lens-based options.

Who Can Develop or Be Treated for Astigmatism

Astigmatism can affect anyone, regardless of age or vision history. It may occur on its own or in combination with nearsightedness or farsightedness. Some people are born with mild astigmatism, while others develop it over time due to changes in the cornea or lens. You may have or benefit from astigmatism treatment if you:

  • Experience blurred or shadowed vision at near and far distances
  • Notice frequent eye strain or headaches after reading or screen use
  • Have difficulty driving at night due to glare or halos around lights
  • Frequently change your glasses or contact lens prescription
  • Were told you are not an ideal candidate for LASIK because of corneal irregularities

Because astigmatism varies in type and severity, a detailed eye examination is essential. Our team uses advanced corneal mapping and wavefront analysis to determine the precise degree and orientation of the irregular curvature.

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Symptoms and Effects of Astigmatism

Astigmatism often causes blurred or distorted vision, but it can also produce other visual disturbances that interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include:

  • Blurred or doubled vision at all distances
  • Headaches and eye strain, especially after close work
  • Squinting or needing to move closer to focus
  • Sensitivity to light or glare
  • Difficulty seeing clearly at night

Even mild astigmatism can affect depth perception and comfort, especially when combined with other refractive errors. Without correction, the eyes must work harder to focus, leading to fatigue and reduced visual performance.

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Treatment Options for Astigmatism

The best treatment for astigmatism depends on its severity, stability, and whether other vision issues are present. At MSH Vision, we provide every available option, from non-surgical correction to advanced laser and lens-based solutions, so your treatment plan is guided by what works best for you.

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Glasses and Contact Lenses

For mild cases, prescription glasses or toric contact lenses can compensate for corneal irregularities. Many patients start with these options and later explore surgical correction for lasting freedom from eyewear.

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Cataract Surgery with Toric Lenses

For patients over 60, cataract surgery combined with toric intraocular lenses can correct both cloudiness and astigmatism in one procedure, providing clear, crisp vision at all distances. At MSH Vision, your surgeon will explain each option in detail and recommend the safest, most effective solution based on your age, prescription, and long-term goals.

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EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

For patients with higher degrees of astigmatism or those not suited for laser correction, EVO ICL offers an alternative. This tiny, flexible lens is placed behind the iris to correct refractive errors and can be removed if desired.

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Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

For older patients or those with early lens changes, RLE replaces the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens that can correct astigmatism while improving both distance and near vision.

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Laser Vision Correction (LASIK and PRK)

Laser-based treatments precisely reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina.

  • LASIK: Ideal for most candidates with mild to moderate astigmatism, offering fast results and minimal downtime.
  • Wavelight Plus LASIK: Uses advanced wavefront technology for custom corneal mapping and sharper visual outcomes.
  • PRK: Recommended for patients with thinner corneas or active lifestyles where flapless laser correction is preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions Astigmatism

Can astigmatism go away on its own?

No. Astigmatism results from the physical shape of the cornea or lens and must be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Is LASIK safe for astigmatism?

Yes. LASIK is one of the most effective treatments for astigmatism, provided you are a suitable candidate based on corneal thickness and stability.

Can astigmatism return after surgery?

Once corrected, astigmatism usually remains stable. In rare cases, small changes may occur over time due to natural eye aging.

Does astigmatism get worse with age?

Mild astigmatism can increase slightly over time as the cornea or lens changes, but early detection and treatment help maintain clear vision.

Is astigmatism the same as keratoconus?

No. Astigmatism is usually caused by regular, symmetrical corneal curvature, while keratoconus involves thinning and irregular bulging of the cornea.

Restore Clarity and Balance to Your Vision

Astigmatism does not have to limit how clearly you see the world. With advanced diagnostics and the full spectrum of treatment options, MSH Vision delivers precise, lasting correction for every type of astigmatism. Our surgeons treat each patient with integrity and attention, ensuring that your vision is restored with the highest standards of safety and care. Schedule your astigmatism consultation today at MSH Vision in Los Angeles or Pasadena and take the first step toward clear, comfortable vision that lasts.

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Ready to See More Clearly at Any Stage of Life?

Searching for your glasses on the nightstand, struggling with contacts during workouts, or noticing your vision becoming cloudy with age - these experiences are common. 

Today’s modern vision corrections procedures - Wavelight Plus LASIK, EVO ICL, Refractive Lens Exchange, and advanced lens laser cataract surgery have allowed tens of millions of people to achieve clearer vision while eliminating or reducing their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. 

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