What isastigmatism?
Do you feel like letters are blurry, as if you were looking at them through a piece of blotting paper? Do lights appear as halos or streaks? Do you experience headaches or eye strain (visual asthenopia) after prolonged periods of effort?
These symptoms are typical of astigmatism, a visual defect that affects the sharpness of images, whether near or far, and is caused by an irregularity in the cornea along a certain axis.
What are the symptoms of astigmatism?
Astigmatism is often described as blurred or distorted vision, both near and far. This is due to a slightly oval (aspherical) cornea instead of a perfectly round (spherical) one. As a result, images are formed in several places on the retina, creating a lack of sharpness. It is often associated with nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Surgical techniques to correct astigmatism
Refractive Surgery
Laser refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, or SMILE) is now a modern, safe, and effective solution for permanently correctingastigmatism. It is intended for people who want to be free of glasses or contact lenses, working directly on the cornea to refocus light rays on the retina.
Intraocular implants
For older patients or those who already have intraocular implants, other solutions may be considered. A comprehensive eye exam is essential to determine the procedure best suited to your visual profile and to ensure personalized and safe care.
Our refractive surgery techniques
Our refractive surgery methods are based on cutting-edge technologies, primarily the excimer laser, which is used to precisely reshape the surface of the cornea. This high-precision laser sculpts the cornea toimprove the focusing of light on the retina, thereby effectively correcting astigmatism. There are several types of procedures available.
- ➜ Quick and painless surgery.
- ➜ Leading laser correction technique. It uses an excimer and femtosecond laser.
- ➜ Almost immediate recovery.
- ➜ Suitable for thin corneas
- ➜ Suitable for physical occupations (firefighters, military personnel, etc.) or contact sports.
- ➜ Option to perform a TRANSPKR (100% laser procedure).
- ➜ Possibility of treating presbyopia.
- ➜ Quick and painless surgery.
- ➜ Suitable for people with presbyopia.
- ➜ Almost immediate recovery.
These procedures provide a lasting correction for astigmatism, offering personalized results tailored to each patient. Imagine no longer having to strain to read up close or worry about eye fatigue after just a few minutes. Thanks to refractive surgery, you can regain clear vision in your daily life and enjoy every moment without visual constraints.
How does the surgeon reshape the cornea during the procedure?
In the case of astigmatism, the visual defect stems from an irregularly shaped cornea that is more oval than round. During the operation, the surgeon works precisely on the most curved areas of the cornea, often located at the periphery or along the distorted axes, in order to make it more spherical.
This targeted reshaping restores clear, consistent vision, reduces visual distortions, and diminishes light halos. Thanks to our excimer laser and its guided topography, we can detect micro-irregularities, asymmetries, and high-order optical aberrations (which cause halos and night blur). A customized treatment is calculated to smooth the cornea, correct conventional vision, and minor deformities that impair visual quality.
The advantage is maximum precision because the treatment is fully adapted to the geometry of the eye, offering better night vision (reduction of halos, photophobia, and asthenopia).
Say goodbye to blurry vision, enjoy the view
Imagine no longer seeing distorted object outlines or annoying halos around lights. With refractive surgery, you can correct your astigmatism and regain clear, precise vision.
Regain control of your vision and enjoy life without visual discomfort.
FAQ: ASTIGMATISM
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a vision disorder that causes blurred and distorted images.
Instead of the light focusing on a single point on the retina, it is projected onto two perpendicular focal lines located at different distances. The result is impaired vision, both near and far.
This defect is usually caused by an irregularity in the cornea, which is more oval than round in shape, disrupting the focusing of images.Astigmatism is often associated with other visual disorders such as nearsightedness orfarsightedness.
How can I tell if I have astigmatism?
I have astigmatism if...
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
- The impression that letters are "smearing" on a page.
- Lights perceived as halos or streaks.
- Eye strain and headaches after prolonged visual effort.
Can you have astigmatism on its own, or is it often associated with other visual impairments?
Astigmatism can occur on its own, but it is often associated with other visual disorders such as myopia,hyperopia, or presbyopia, requiring appropriate correction with glasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery.
However, certain conditions such as keratoconus , retinal diseases , glaucoma, immune diseases, or progressive cataract may contraindicate the operation and require specific treatment.
What are the solutions for correcting astigmatism?
Refractive surgery (LASIK, SMILE, PKR) eliminates astigmatism by reshaping the curvature of the cornea to improve image focus.
- LASIK : A quick procedure using a femtosecond laser to create a corneal flap, followed by an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. It is ideal for correcting mild to moderate astigmatism.
- PKR : A surface technique recommended for patients with thin corneas or who engage in high-risk activities.
- SMILE : A minimally invasive, state-of-the-art surgical method that is particularly effective for treating astigmatism combined with myopia or hyperopia.
Is laser eye surgery painful?
This laser treatment is painless thanks to local anesthesia administered via eye drops. You will be awake but will not feel any pain. After the procedure, you may experience slight discomfort:
- Feeling of sand in the eye,
- Watery eyes,
- Sensitivity to light.
These effects are normal, temporary, and disappear within a few hours to a few days, depending on the technique used.
How long does recovery take?
It depends on the surgical techniques:
- LASIK: Vision is often clear within the first few hours, with a return to work the next day.
- PKR: Visual discomfort is common for 2 to 3 days, with complete recovery within 1 week.
- SMILE: Vision gradually improves, with reading comfort restored within a few days.
In all cases, strenuous physical activity or dusty environments should be avoided for one week. Postoperative follow-up is also scheduled to ensure that healing is progressing properly and that vision is improving as expected.
Can myopia and astigmatism be corrected at the same time?
Refractive surgery can correct:
- Hyperopia,
- Astigmatism,
- Presbyopia,
- Nearsightedness
A single procedure is often sufficient to treat multiple visual defects, provided that the cornea is of good quality and the correction is stable.
Who can benefit from laser correction?
You can apply if:
- You are of legal age,
- Your prescription has been stable for at least a year,
- You do not have any contraindications (keratoconus, excessively thin cornea, severe dry eye, etc.).
A complete preoperative assessment is required to confirm eligibility.
Should I stop wearing my contact lenses before the operation?
Contact lenses can temporarily change the shape of your cornea. Here are the recommended time limits:
- Soft contact lenses: stop wearing them one week before the examination and surgery.
- Hard or semi-hard lenses: stop wearing them 2 to 3 weeks beforehand.
This ensures reliable measurements for optimal results.
Is surgery covered by insurance?
It's simple:
- On Doctolib, by choosing an appointment slot with a specialized ophthalmologist.
- By phone, by contacting PHENICIA VISION directly.
- Or by visiting our website.
The preoperative assessment allows you to:
- Measure your visual acuity,
- Assess the health of your cornea and lens,
- Choosing the best surgical technique for you.
At Phenicia Vision in Marseille, our team ofoptometrists and doctors combines expertise in ophthalmology and cutting-edge technology to offer long-lasting vision correction.
What are the possible risks or side effects?
Side effects are rare, but the risk is always present and most often temporary. These include:
- Dry eyes
- Sensitivity to light,
- Halos around lights (especially at night),
- Temporary fluctuation in vision.
Good follow-up and clear communication between the patient andthe medical team make it possible to anticipate and quickly treat any discomfort, and reduce all risks.
How do I make an appointment?
Simply book an eye exam via Doctolib or by contacting a center specializing in refractive surgery directly. This appointment, conducted by an optometrist or eye surgeon, will accurately measure your prescription, assess the overall health of your eyes, and determine whether your myopia has been stable for at least one year.
If no contraindications are detected (such as a cornea that is too thin, keratoconus, or early cataracts) and you meet the eligibility criteria, the ophthalmologist will then be able to recommend a suitable surgical technique (LASIK, PRK, or SMILE) and schedule the procedure. This initial consultation is essential to ensure personalized, safe care that meets your visual needs and lifestyle. During this assessment, you will be given a detailed quote, including the price of the operation according to the technique chosen.
What are the contraindications for refractive surgery?
Here are some situations where refractive surgery is not recommended:
- Cornea too thin,
- Progressive conditions (keratoconus, glaucoma, advanced cataracts),
- Uncontrolled autoimmune diseases,
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (temporarily),
- Severe untreated dry eye.
In these cases, other options may be suggested by the ophthalmologist to avoid any risk of complications.
Is it possible to have surgery if I have already had cataract surgery or if I have implants?
It is sometimes possible to undergo secondary refractive surgery (PRK or LASIK) even after implant placement, if residual correction is necessary. A thorough assessment will evaluate:
- The quality of the cornea,
- The type of implant,
- The tear film and the topography of the eye.
Do presbyopia and myopia occur at the same time?
Yes, particularly thanks to PresbyLASIK or the insertion ofmultifocal implants. This allows patients to regain comfortable near and distance vision without glasses, offering numerous benefits for people over the age of 40.
In some cases,astigmatism can also be corrected at the same time, if the surgeon considers it compatible with the chosen treatment.
Feasibility will depend on your:
- Age,
- Correction,
- Condition of the cornea,
- Visual expectations (reading, driving, etc.).
Is refractive surgery for hyperopia permanent, or can it "come back" over time?
Yes, particularly thanks to PresbyLASIK or the insertion ofmultifocal implants. This allows patients to regain comfortable near and distance vision without glasses, offering numerous benefits for people over the age of 40.
In some cases,astigmatism can also be corrected at the same time, if the surgeon considers it compatible with the chosen treatment.
Feasibility will depend on your:
- Age,
- Correction,
- Condition of the cornea,
- Visual expectations (reading, driving, etc.).
Can I drive or use a screen immediately after the procedure?
Refractive surgery provides a permanent solution for hyperopia. Once the cornea has been reshaped, it retains its new shape over time, allowing for clear vision without glasses or contact lenses for many years.
However, it is important to note that the eye continues to age naturally. After the age of 40-45, presbyopia may develop, even if hyperopia has been corrected. This change is not a recurrence of hyperopia, but a loss of accommodation of the lens, which can be corrected by other techniques if necessary.
Regular checkups with your ophthalmologist remain essential to preserve the quality of your vision in the long term.
Can I have the surgery even if I have worn glasses since childhood?
Yes, of course. Many patients with hyperopia have worn glasses since childhood, sometimes with a significant correction. It is entirely possible to have surgery provided that:
- Your vision has been stable for at least one year,
- Your cornea is sufficiently thick and regular,
- You had no medical contraindications.
The preoperative consultation will allow all these factors to be checked. It is often the case that long-term patients are among the most satisfied, as they rediscover the comfort of natural vision for the first time since childhood.
Is there an age limit for undergoing surgery for hyperopia?
There is no fixed age limit, but certain areas of caution should be taken into account:
- Under 20 years of age: it is preferable to wait until vision is stable, as hyperopia may still change.
- Between 20 and 45 years old: this is the ideal age range for LASIK or PRK correction.
- After 45-50 years of age: if presbyopia sets in, adapted techniques such as PresbyLASIK or multifocal implants are preferred.
In older patients, or those who have already undergone cataract surgery, additional surgery may be recommended. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis, following a thorough assessment.
Can I drive or use a screen immediately after the procedure?
It all depends on the technique used and individual recovery:
- With LASIK, most patients regain good vision within a few hours and can drive the next day if the ophthalmologist gives the green light.
- With PKR, more pronounced visual discomfort is present for 2 to 3 days, making driving orprolonged use of screens uncomfortable.
- With PresbyLASIK, recovery is also quick, but slight blurriness when seeing close up may persist for a few days while the brain adapts to the new vision.
In all cases, a full day of rest is recommended after the operation, and it is best to avoid screens for 24 to 48 hours to limit fatigue.Your ophthalmologist will tell you exactly when it is safe to resume your normal activities.
How much does surgery for hyperopia cost, and are there any payment options available?
The cost depends on the technique used (LASIK, PRK, or PresbyLASIK) and the type of surgery required. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Between €2,000 and €2,800 for both eyes at Phenicia Vision
- This fee generally includes the preoperative assessment, the procedure, postoperative care, and follow-up consultations.
This surgery is not covered by Social Security, but some mutual insurance companies reimburse part of the costs (approximately €800 per year, depending on the policy).
Am I at risk after laser surgery for astigmatism?
As with any surgery, there are rare but possible risks, such as halos, over- or under-correction, or vision regression, and abnormal scarring (haze/opacification).
What are the post-operative recommendations following laser eye surgery?
It is recommended to avoid rubbing your eyes (dry eye syndrome + delayed healing), limit exposure to light, follow the prescribed treatment, and avoid sports, swimming, or wearing makeup around your eyes for a few days/weeks.
Who can benefit from refractive surgery?
You may be eligible for the operation if:
- You are of legal age.
- Your prescription has been stable for at least one year (no change greater than 0.50 diopters in the last two years).
You do not have any medical contraindications, such as:
- Keratoconus,
- Cornea too thin,
- Severe dry eye,
- Retinal diseases (e.g., AMD, retinopathy, degeneration),
- Amblyopia,
- Uveitis,
- Glaucoma,
- Progressive cataract.
How do I make an appointment?
Simply book an eye exam via Doctolib or by contacting a center specializing in refractive surgery directly. This appointment, carried out with an optometrist or eye surgeon, will allow your prescription to be accurately measured, the overall health of your eyes to be assessed, and to determine whether your myopia has been stable for at least one year.
More specifically, the review will enable us to:
The preoperative assessment allows you to:
- Measure your visual acuity.
- Assess the health of your eyes (cornea, lens, retina, tears, and tear glands).
- Examine your eyelids and eye muscles to check for convergence or accommodation disorders.
- Determine the surgical technique best suited to your profile.
If no contraindications are detected (such as a cornea that is too thin, keratoconus, or early-stage cataracts) and you meet the eligibility criteria, the ophthalmologist will then be able to recommend a suitable surgical technique (LASIK, PRK, or SMILE) and schedule the procedure. This initial consultation is essential to ensure personalized, safe care that meets your visual needs and lifestyle.
During this assessment, you will be given a detailed quote, including the price of the procedure according to the technique chosen.
How much does astigmatism surgery cost, and are there any payment options available?
- Between €2,000 and €2,800 for both eyes at Phenicia Vision.
- This fee generally includes the preoperative assessment,the procedure, postoperative care, and follow-up consultations.
- Payment facilities available up to 4 times (with administrative fees).
- €145 application fee.
This surgery is not covered by Social Security, but some mutual insurance companies reimburse part of the costs (approximately €800 per year, depending on the policy).
