Can Laser Eye Surgery Fix Astigmatism: Patient Guide 2026

Mr Tariq Ayoub - 23 Mar 2022, Updated: 27 Mar 2026

Laser eye surgery can often correct astigmatism by reshaping the cornea, helping light focus properly on the retina. For many patients, this reduces or even removes the need for glasses. Wondering whether laser eye surgery for astigmatism is worth it? We explain how it works, who it suits, what to expect, and what to look for when choosing a clinic.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens of your eye isn’t completely round. Instead, it is an oval shape — similar to a rugby ball. This uneven shape causes light entering the eye to focus at multiple points rather than one clear focal point. Astigmatism is a common condition, with almost 50% of UK soft contact lens wearers having some degree of astigmatism.

Regular vs Irregular Astigmatism: Why the Difference Matters

Not all astigmatism is the same. Understanding the difference is important when considering laser eye surgery.

Regular astigmatism is the most common form. It occurs when the cornea has a uniform but uneven curve — similar to the surface of a rugby ball. This causes light to focus at two points rather than one. This type responds well to laser eye surgery. It is what most patients mean when they ask whether laser can correct their astigmatism.

Irregular astigmatism is different. Here, the corneal surface is distorted in an inconsistent way. This is often caused by a condition such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, or a previous eye injury. Because the distortion does not follow a uniform pattern, standard laser treatment cannot reliably correct it. In the case of keratoconus, laser surgery can actively worsen the condition by further weakening an already vulnerable cornea.

Can Irregular Astigmatism Be Treated?

For patients with irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus, the treatment pathway is different. Where keratoconus is progressive, corneal crosslinking (CXL) is used to strengthen and stabilise the cornea, helping to prevent further progression.

In some cases CXL can be combined with a specialised topography-guided laser treatment. This approach aims to improve the shape and regularity of the cornea, which can allow for better vision with glasses or contact lenses and improved overall visual quality.

It is important to note that this combined treatment must be performed at the same time as CXL. If CXL has already been carried out previously, topography-guided treatment is not suitable afterwards. At Oculase, we treat keratoconus and can advise whether this combined approach is right for your eyes.

If you have been told you have irregular astigmatism or keratoconus, specialist assessment is essential. Not every laser eye surgery clinic has experience with both conditions. The distinction between regular and irregular astigmatism is one of the most important factors in determining whether laser surgery is safe for you.

Can I Get Laser Eye Surgery with Astigmatism?

Yes, many people with astigmatism can safely have laser eye surgery.

Whether you are a suitable candidate depends on several factors. These include the degree of your astigmatism, the thickness and health of your corneas, and how stable your prescription is.

At Oculase — The Eye Clinic, we take great care in determining the safest and most effective treatment for your eyes. Our goal is to help you achieve clearer vision and reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

How Does Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism Work?

Astigmatism treatment generally follows a similar sequence of steps. The exact technique will depend on which type of laser eye surgery is recommended for you.

1. We apply numbing eye drops to keep you comfortable throughout
2. A precise laser reshapes your cornea to correct the astigmatism
3. Your eye begins healing almost immediately — most patients notice clearer vision within hours

LASIK is a quick procedure that lasts around 30 minutes. You should avoid wearing makeup on the day of your surgery. Feel free to ask any questions before we begin — we want you to feel comfortable throughout.

After your procedure, you can go home straight away. Arrange a lift home and avoid bright lights for the rest of the day. 

Your eyes may feel gritty or dry after LASIK, though this is normal and should fade with time. Learn more in our guide to LASIK eye surgery.

All modern laser eye surgery uses advanced wavefront technology to guide treatment. At Oculase – The Eye Clinic, we use wavefront-optimised profiles as standard for every patient. This helps ensure the cornea is reshaped in a way that maintains its natural optical quality, supporting clearer, more consistent outcomes. r

Choosing the Right Procedure Based on Your Astigmatism Prescription

Several types of vision correction surgery may be used to treat astigmatism. The most suitable option depends on several factors. These include your prescription, the shape and thickness of your cornea, your age, and your overall eye health.

Below are the main types of vision correction for astigmatism.

Important: These ranges are general guidelines — the final recommendation always depends on the complete clinical picture, including a full consultation and corneal scan.

LASIK vs SMILE vs PRK for Astigmatism

LASIK is the most popular laser eye surgery for treating astigmatism. It corrects astigmatism by creating a thin flap and removing ultra-thin layers from the cornea to reshape it.

LASIK involves two steps. First, a suction ring creates a thin flap in the cornea. Then, a laser reshapes the cornea by adjusting its curvature and thickness.

 Can LASIK fix astigmatism?

Yes. LASIK can treat astigmatism alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness. Recovery is usually quick, with many patients noticing clearer vision within a day or two. 

SMILE for Astigmatism

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser procedure that can effectively treat astigmatism. On modern platforms, SMILE can treat astigmatism up to approximately -5.00D. This makes it comparable to LASIK in terms of prescription range. SMILE is approved for myopic astigmatism. It cannot currently treat hyperopic (long-sighted) astigmatism. If you have mixed or hyperopic astigmatism, LASIK, LASEK, ICL or RLE would be more appropriate. 

PRK or LASEK for Astigmatism

PRK and LASEK are surface-based laser treatments that reshape the cornea without creating a flap. Visual results are similar to LASIK, though healing and recovery take a little longer.

LASEK and PRK are a suitable option for patients who cannot have LASIK. Both procedures move the corneal epithelium — the cornea’s thinnest layer — to access and correct any abnormalities. 

Who is PRK or LASEK suitable for?

PRK or LASEK may be recommended for patients who:

•   Have thinner corneas
•   Are not ideal candidates for LASIK
•   Would benefit from a flap-free procedure

People who do contact sports or risk of trauma eg military personnel

Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism: Which is Best?

For many of our patients, LASIK is the most commonly recommended treatment. It offers precise correction and fast visual recovery.

However, if your corneas are thinner or LASIK is not suitable, PRK or LASEK may be a safer alternative. 

At Oculase — The Eye Clinic, we determine the most appropriate treatment through a comprehensive consultation and corneal scan. This ensures we recommend the safest and most effective procedure for your eyes.

Will Laser Eye Surgery Completely Correct Astigmatism?

Whilst laser eye surgery can significantly reduce or fully correct astigmatism, results vary from patient to patient. The outcome depends on a combination of clinical factors, including:

The degree of astigmatism

Mild to moderate astigmatism typically responds very well to laser correction. Higher degrees may still see substantial improvement, though achieving complete correction can be more complex. This will be discussed honestly with you during your consultation.

Your overall prescription

Astigmatism rarely exists in isolation. Your full prescription, including any short- or long-sightedness, is taken into account when planning treatment. The interaction between these elements influences what level of correction is safely achievable.

The thickness and health of your cornea

Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea, so its thickness and structural health are fundamental to how much correction can be performed safely. Patients with thinner or irregular corneas may be better suited to alternative procedures. Our team will advise on this.

The precision of your biometry measurements

Accurate eye measurements taken during your initial consultation — known as corneal topography — are the foundation of a successful outcome. These detailed scans map the unique shape and curvature of your cornea, helping us understand the type and degree of astigmatism present.. Even small inaccuracies at this stage can affect your final result. This is why we use advanced diagnostic technology and ensure every measurement is exact before treatment is planned.

The surgeon you choose

The skill, experience, and judgement of your surgeon play a crucial role in your results. An experienced laser eye surgeon does more than follow a plan. They interpret your measurements, anticipate how your eyes may respond, and make informed decisions throughout your treatment. Choosing a surgeon with a strong track record in treating astigmatism gives you the best possible foundation for an outstanding outcome.

Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism: Pros and Cons

Laser eye surgery can be an effective way to correct astigmatism and reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The benefits include:

•   Clearer vision
•   Quick recovery (especially with LASIK)
•   Positive long-term results for many patients

However, as with any procedure, there are potential drawbacks. Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights during night-time vision.

Are Halos or Starbursts Worse With Astigmatism?

People with astigmatism sometimes experience halos, glare, or starbursts around lights — especially at night. Laser eye surgery can often reduce these distortions by correcting the irregular corneal shape.

Some patients may also notice temporary halos after laser eye surgery. These usually improve as the eyes heal.

Am I a Candidate for LASIK with Astigmatism?

A large number of patients with astigmatism are able to have laser eye surgery safely and successfully. LASIK can treat astigmatism up to around six dioptres, though this can vary depending on the individual eye and technology used.

You may be a suitable candidate for LASIK if your prescription has been stable for some time, your corneas are healthy, and you are over the age of 21.

During your consultation, we will assess the shape and thickness of your cornea to make sure the procedure is safe for your eyes.

How Painful Is Astigmatism Surgery?

Astigmatism surgery with LASIK is generally not painful. Before the procedure begins, we apply numbing eye drops to keep the eye comfortable throughout treatment.

During the procedure, you may notice a slight sensation of pressure. Most patients describe the experience as quick and manageable rather than uncomfortable. The treatment itself typically takes only a few minutes per eye.

After surgery, it is normal for your eyes to feel slightly gritty, sensitive to light, or mildly uncomfortable for a short period while they begin to heal. These temporary symptoms usually improve within a few days.

We will provide comprehensive aftercare advice and lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes comfortable as they heal. 

Is Laser Eye Surgery More Expensive if You Have Astigmatism?

At Oculase — The Eye Clinic, the cost of laser eye surgery for astigmatism is in line with standard laser vision correction, even for moderate prescriptions. Very high levels of astigmatism may require more advanced treatment planning, which can affect the price.

Our pricing reflects our state-of-the-art technology, expert ophthalmologists, and personalised care. Everything is designed to ensure safe, effective results.

During your consultation, we take all the necessary measurements. This allows us to give you a transparent, tailored estimate based on your prescription and recommended procedure.

Find out more about our pricing here.

Is it Worth Getting Surgery for Astigmatism?

Whether or not you choose to get surgery for astigmatism depends on how much it affects your daily life and vision.

Some people are comfortable managing their vision with glasses or contact lenses. Others prefer to explore longer-term options, particularly if their prescription is changing or they would like greater freedom from corrective eyewear.

For patients seeking a longer-term solution – particularly where prescription changes are a concern – laser eye surgery is well worth exploring. 

Is Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism Permanent?

Laser eye surgery provides a permanent correction of astigmatism — once the cornea is reshaped, it retains its new shape and the correction does not wear off. That said, your eyes can continue to change naturally over time, independently of the surgery. Age-related shifts in the eye’s natural lens can mean vision changes slightly in later years. This is not the laser correction reversing — it is your eye evolving naturally, as it would have done with or without surgery. 

Can Astigmatism Come Back After Laser Eye Surgery?

A small degree of regression can occur, where the eye gradually moves slightly back towards its original prescription. This is most likely in patients with higher degrees of astigmatism, where more corneal tissue has been removed and the eye’s healing response is greater. For patients with mild to moderate astigmatism and a stable prescription, results typically remain consistent for decades. Where meaningful regression does occur, an enhancement procedure can often restore clarity, provided sufficient corneal tissue remains.

 Why Might Laser Eye Surgery Not Be Suitable for Astigmatism?

For some people, laser eye surgery may not be the best option for treating astigmatism. This includes patients with:

•   Certain corneal conditions
•   Very high levels of astigmatism (over 6.0D)
•   Unstable prescriptions
•   Significant dry eye disease

What Other Procedures Can Treat Astigmatism?

Laser eye surgery is a popular and effective option for many people. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone. In some cases, alternative procedures can help correct astigmatism or reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

Two alternatives are implantable contact lenses (ICL) and refractive lens exchange (RLE), each offering a reliable solution depending on your vision needs and overall eye health.

Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

Implantable contact lenses are an effective alternative for correcting astigmatism in patients who are not suitable for laser eye surgery. This may include people with high prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eyes, where laser reshaping of the cornea is not recommended. 

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as lens replacement surgery, can correct astigmatism by replacing your natural lens with a toric IOL. This procedure is particularly useful for patients with high astigmatism, presbyopia, or those who may develop cataracts later in life.

RLE can also address short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and age-related near vision changes at the same time. Because it involves removing the natural lens, we generally recommend it for patients aged 50 and over.

Questions to Ask When Comparing Clinics

Diagnostics

•   Are corneal tomography scans included in the assessment?

Your Surgeon

•   Who performs my surgery, and will I meet them beforehand?
•   How many astigmatism corrections has my surgeon performed?
•   Is my surgeon on the GMC specialist register for ophthalmology?

Laser Technology

•  Which laser platform do you use, and is it approved for astigmatism?
• Is wavefront-optimised treatment used as standard?

Suitability & Outcomes

•   Based on my scans, am I genuinely a good candidate — or is another procedure better suited?
•   What are your published results for patients with my level of astigmatism?
•   What is your enhancement rate for astigmatism patients? 

Pricing & Aftercare

•   Does your quoted price fully include astigmatism correction?
•   What aftercare is included, and for how long?

Red Flags to Watch For When Choosing a Clinic

Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

•   A very low headline price with astigmatism correction listed as an add-on
•   Corneal scans absent from the assessment protocol
•   You are not given the opportunity to meet your surgeon before the day
•   Pressure to book quickly, or very limited time to consider your options
•   Outcomes data is unavailable or the clinic is reluctant to share it
•   No written enhancement or aftercare policy is provided
•   Assessment conducted entirely by non-clinical staff with no surgeon involvement

Book an Appointment

Tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses every day? Speak to one of our ophthalmologists about laser eye surgery for astigmatism. We will assess your eye health and prescription to determine the most suitable treatment option for you.

Book a FREE 30-minute online consultation today to start your journey and prioritise your eye health.

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