Astigmatism Treatment in Izmir
Astigmatism is a very common refractive error that occurs when the cornea — the transparent front layer of the eye — or the lens inside the eye deviates from its ideal spherical shape. These structures should normally focus light onto a single point on the retina; in astigmatism, however, their oval (egg-like) shape causes light to focus on multiple points, resulting in blurred, shadowed or double vision at both near and far distances. Astigmatism frequently coexists with myopia or hyperopia. At our clinic in Izmir, we evaluate and treat astigmatism on a fully individual basis, from simple glasses and contact lens solutions to advanced laser procedures such as SMILE and LASIK.
What Causes Astigmatism?
The most important cause of astigmatism is genetic predisposition; people with a family history of astigmatism are significantly more likely to develop it. Usually present from birth, this refractive error results from an irregular curvature of the cornea or the natural lens. In addition, previous eye surgery, corneal injuries, the habit of rubbing the eyes for prolonged periods, and certain corneal diseases such as keratoconus can cause astigmatism or worsen an existing one. Since the degree of astigmatism can change over time, people whose glasses prescription changes frequently should have regular eye examinations.
What Are the Symptoms of Astigmatism?
The symptoms of astigmatism vary according to the degree of the refractive error. Low-degree astigmatism may cause almost no noticeable symptoms, whereas moderate and high degrees significantly reduce visual comfort. The complaints patients most frequently report at our clinic include:
- Blurred or shadowed vision at both near and far distances
- Halos and glare around lights, lights appearing stretched or elongated
- Difficulty with night vision and driving after dark
- Seeing text double or with shadows
- Rapid eye fatigue during prolonged reading or screen use
- Frequent headaches and the need to squint
If these symptoms sound familiar, the short test below can give you an initial idea of whether you may have astigmatism. The test is not a diagnostic tool; a comprehensive eye examination is essential for a definitive result.
How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?
Astigmatism is easily diagnosed through measurements taken after a detailed vision examination. An autorefractometer measures the eye's refractive error, while corneal topography maps the surface of the cornea and precisely determines the degree and axis of the astigmatism. This assessment is critical both for identifying the type of astigmatism (myopic or hyperopic) and for planning the most suitable treatment method.
Astigmatism Treatment Options
The aim of astigmatism treatment is to compensate for the irregular shape of the cornea or lens so that light focuses on a single point on the retina. The choice of treatment is tailored to each patient according to the degree of astigmatism, the patient's age, corneal structure and lifestyle.
Looking at the treatment options step by step, the most basic method is glasses; astigmatism is corrected with cylindrical lenses prescribed according to its axis, and glasses are the first choice for children under 15. For those who prefer not to wear glasses, toric contact lenses suited to the degree of astigmatism are an alternative.
For individuals over 18 with suitable eye anatomy, laser treatment (SMILE, LASIK, PRK) offers a permanent solution. Laser procedures reshape the corneal surface, largely or completely eliminating the astigmatism. In patients over 45, those with cataracts or those who also have near-vision problems, toric premium lenses (Trifocal Toric) implanted during cataract surgery can correct astigmatism and other refractive errors in a single session. In patients whose corneas are not suitable for laser, a phakic intraocular lens (ICL/Toric ICL) may also be considered.
In Summary;
- First choice for low degrees and in children: Glasses
- For those who prefer not to wear glasses: Toric Contact Lenses
- Permanent solution for suitable eyes over 18: SMILE / LASIK / PRK Laser
- For patients over 45 and those with cataracts: Toric Premium Lens
- For eyes not suitable for laser: Phakic Intraocular Lens (Toric ICL)
Because astigmatism is a structural refractive error, it cannot be cured with exercises or medication. Glasses and contact lenses correct vision but do not eliminate the underlying defect; a permanent cure is only possible through refractive surgery (laser or lens procedures). With early diagnosis and proper planning, astigmatism can be corrected safely and with a high success rate. You can explore below, step by step, how laser treatment — the most frequently preferred permanent solution — is performed.
