“Astigmatism is a relatively minor eye condition which is caused when the cornea is slightly misshaped.” Ideally, the cornea should be perfectly curved. When misshaped the cornea results in blurred vision. Usually, astigmatism is caused by the cornea becoming slightly flatter than it should. This cornea in astigmatism is likened to being like a rugby ball shape rather than the smoother football. This is what causes the blurring. The blurring means that the eye must compensate to see things. This compensation can often lead to squinting, irritation and discomfort in the eye, and in extreme cases, headaches. Along with myopia (short-sightedness) and hypermetropia (long-sightedness), astigmatism belongs to a group of eye conditions known as refractive errors. Though astigmatism can be caused by eye injuries, or as a result of an operation on the eye, in the vast majority of cases it is something we develop in the early years of our life. What can be done about it? Astigmatisms are relatively manageable because they are constant. Usually, they stay the same as time goes by getting neither better, nor worse. This means that even in cases where treatment is necessary, a single pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses will usually be sufficient. If astigmatism is particularly severe or causes symptoms, then there are several surgical options. Treatments Limbal Relaxing Incision (LRI)LRI’s are a form of surgery that falls under the wider group of astigmatic keratotomy procedures. The LRI procedure works by making very small incisions in the cornea. These incisions are intended to encourage and create a more rounded cornea, correcting the flattening that causes the blurred vision. The side effects of LRI surgery are relatively few and mild. Additionally, the recovery times for patients who have undergone LRI surgery have proven to be very short.The procedure itself is relatively short, safe and effective. Before the surgery begins the surgeon will apply anaesthetic eye drops to the patient. The surgeon will then use a speculum to hold each eye open in turn. Once these preparations have been made the surgeon will begin making the very small incisions in an attempt to ‘relax’ the cornea. Quite often LRIs are used in co-operation with other treatments, such as cataract surgery or lens exchange. To determine whether or not either of these treatments is right for you, you should speak to one of our specialised eye doctors.Toric Intraocular Lenses (IOL)The common aim of most people seeking eye surgery is to be able to go about their daily business without the hassle of glasses. If you suffer from a refractive error then one of the ways to achieve this goal is often through the implantation of an artificial lens. There are many lenses available to surgeons, each of which is designed to correct a different type of refractive error. By choosing the right one for your eyes, the results can be exceptional in reducing or eliminating astigmatism. The AcrySof Toric IOL is a lens designed to be implanted specifically to correct astigmatism. The Toric IOL works by correcting the focus of the light entering the eye. Astigmatisms are usually caused by the flattening of the cornea which causes the light to be scattered. The Toric IOL refocuses this light so that the eye can see again.The results for Toric IOLs used to treat astigmatisms can be excellent. For some people, they offer by far the best option. For others, the best option may be Limbal Relaxing Incision surgery. It is also possible to use these two effective procedures together to give the best possible results. To discuss your options please feel free to talk to one of our specialised eye care professionals. Click on the links below for more information on these conditions. MyopiaHypermetropiaPresbyopia Patient Testimonials Excellent experience From start to finish first class care, and nothing too much trouble. I am pleased to report the operated eye is working very well, and a big thank you to all concerned. I have a learned a new tune to play at Church this Sunday, "I… Geoff Eddleston Efficient service Really quick referral and appointment at CHEC Stockport. Lovely staff. Efficient and timely appropriate medical care. Responsive follow up. Premises are really clean and a pleasant experience at a worrying time of a health issue involving eyesight. Excellent care thank you! Richard Thrilled I am thrilled with my 1st eye surgery and even happier to hear from head office the day after my post-cataract check offering me an appointment for my second eye surgery, especially after being told it may be 6-8 weeks. Everyone is friendly, and I can’t… Anonymous Very pleased I am very pleased with the service at CHEC, it is absolutely first-class. From the receptionists, the way I was treated and having the operation done was good. Since having the operation my vision has been very good. Anonymous Thank you Thank you to everyone for making Brian’s cataract operation go so smoothly, together with your kindness and support, we are sure Brian will be well on track soon to be able to see where his golf ball lands again. I will then be a golfing widow… Anonymous Highly satisfied I had a cataract removed July of last year, very successful and the staff were excellent. I recently returned this July for a follow-up appointment, again the staff were excellent, but have to commend the young receptionist for her friendliness and manner, in which she welcomed… Diane Mellows Fantastic experience The whole process has been very fast and exceeded my expectations. The staff are all very friendly and professional. I am very pleased with CHEC Northampton. Anonymous Great practice I’m amazed by the quick, efficient service and ecstatic about the results. I now see car number plates, road signs, and TV text bright and clearly, with everything appearing detailed. This is the best birthday present ever. Thank you so much, please don’t change a thing. Marian Curran