Can I undergo laser eye surgery for myopia if I have astigmatism?

May 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 23-year-old female. My myopia is 400 degrees with an additional 100 degrees of astigmatism. I would like to know whether I am eligible for laser eye surgery under these circumstances. Can individuals with astigmatism undergo laser eye surgery for myopia?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai

It is possible to undergo laser eye surgery for myopia correction if you have astigmatism, but suitability depends on the degree of astigmatism and your ocular conditions. Common laser surgeries such as SMILE, femtosecond LASIK, and surface ablation procedures can correct both myopia and astigmatism within certain ranges. Generally, individuals with astigmatism up to 600 degrees and suitable corneal conditions can achieve satisfactory visual correction through surgery. If the astigmatism is too high or other ocular issues exist, alternative correction methods such as implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery may be recommended. A comprehensive preoperative eye examination is necessary to evaluate the feasibility and expected outcomes of surgery.

To ensure surgical safety and effectiveness, it is recommended to undergo detailed eye examinations at a reputable hospital to understand your corneal thickness, degree of astigmatism, and overall ocular health. After surgery, strictly follow the doctor's post-operative care instructions, avoid rubbing your eyes or overusing them, and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery. In daily life, maintain healthy visual habits, minimize prolonged near-eye work, and increase outdoor activity time to protect your vision. Each individual's ocular conditions are unique, so it is important not to blindly pursue surgical correction but rather choose an appropriate treatment plan under professional guidance.