“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 Superb I just had my cataract surgery at CHEC. Despite my nerves, the staff were reassuring and made me feel comfortable. The surgery was quick, I was kept informed at every stage which was great. I cannot recommend CHEC highly enough. Gill Couldn’t fault them As soon as I arrived, I was made to feel at ease. All staff were friendly but professional, they couldn’t have been any better. I now have no fear in returning to continue my treatment. Linda S Excellent practice This was my first visit to CHEC, the Reception staff were extremely helpful and polite. All the other staff were very pleasant and made you feel welcome to be there, credit to you all. Linda James Lovely Staff Welcoming, friendly, attentive, efficient, and above all, patient. Having my eyes tested at this practice provided excellent service at a time when one might wonder why these tests are necessary. Thanks to the staff I met today. Kevin Johnson Absolutely brilliantly at Ilford The staff at Ilford were excellent. The nurses explained my procedure step by step, and when I met with the doctor, they were very welcoming and made me feel comfortable. Thank you so much. Barbara Murphy Friendly staff at Ilford Clinic The staff are all very friendly, very kind and very smiley. I had a good experience, and I would definitely recommend Ilford practice to friends and family. Raahim Fantastic service I had my second cataract procedure at CHEC in Blackpool today. Once again l was impressed by the kindness, helpfulness, good humour, and professionalism of everybody who works there. Thank you. Graham Jones Amazing experience I had a laser capsulotomy treatment in Stevenage on Monday 26th February. I was in and out of the treatment centre in under 10 minutes. All instructions were easy to follow with astonishing results. Well-done and thank you. S Frost Great and very patient focused The staff were brilliant at each stage which made the entire process calming, from consultation through to the surgery. The receptionists were fantastic. Kim All very professional and competent! I found the whole process to be highly professional and competent and would therefore recommend this organisation without reservation to anyone who needs cataract surgery. Nigel Morgan Wonderful stress-free experience I was made to feel relaxed from the moment we arrived by all the amazing staff. I wish other medical institutions were like this. Thank you. K.R. Great practice All the staff were attentive, polite and friendly. They listened to my individual needs and took great care of me. Mary Dyas 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 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 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