Is PRK Possible for People Who Have Astigmatism?

Question

Farzad Yaghouti, MD · Answer

The short answer : In most cases, Yes. But of course, there are degrees of astigmatism which fall outside of teh approved range for laser eye surgery.

Michael K. Tracy, MD · Answer

PRK is very effective in treating astigmatism.  Even very high levels of astigmatism can usually be treated if the eyes are otherwise healthy.

Ilan Cohen, MD · Answer

Astigmatism is a type of refractive error just like myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). Having astigmatism alone does not discount you as a candidate from any form of laser vision correction.

Mark Golden, MD · Answer

The laser used for PRK and LASIK is the same and both can treat even high amounts of astigmatism.  The only difference is the amount of healing time between the two.

Paul C. Kang, MD · Answer

The laser that is used to treat your nearsightedness or farsightedness is the same laser that treats your astigmatism, whether you have PRK or LASIK. There are maximum amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism that the FDA has approved these laser for, but assuming you fall within the range, you should have no problem have your astigmatism treated during your PRK procedure. Thanks, Dr. Kang

Is PRK Possible for People Who Have Astigmatism?

Answers (7)