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Astigmatism 101: Everything you need to know

Recently diagnosed with astigmatism or know someone who has been? Astigmatism is a natural and an extremely common eye error.

Astigmatism is a very common eye condition which is a simply a ‘refractive error’ (as opposed to an ailment or illness.

Essentially, when someone has astigmatism, it simply means that the cornea is not perfectly round. In other words, there is a slight imperfection in the curvature of the cornea which makes it more rugby ball than football-shaped, to put it in sporting terms!

While a perfectly curved cornea will reflect light rays onto the retina at the back of the eye, astigmatism will ensure that these light rays aren’t refracted properly, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.

Astigmatism is extremely common so although the word itself suggests something rather serious, 47% of people in the UK who wear glasses are thought to have it to some degree.

How do you get it?
It is totally natural and, as illustrated by the fact that 47% of people who wear glasses in the UK have it, almost as common as not having one!

The truth is that most people are born with it and there really is no explanation as to why this is the case but it is thought that is very possible that genetics could well play a role.

However, though most people with astigmatism are born with the condition, this is not always the case: astigmatism can also develop because of an eye injury or resulting from surgery undergone to repair an eye injury.

How is it treated and can I still have laser eye surgery at Optilase?
Astigmatism can be very easily corrected simply by wearing glasses or contact lenses, or by undergoing laser eye surgery.

In the case of laser eye surgery, this procedure physically changes the shape of the cornea permanently, unlike glasses and contacts which will only correct it during those periods when you are wearing your glasses or contacts.

So, the fact of the matter is that laser surgery is the only permanent solution to astigmatism, and the only method which will enable you to live your life glasses or contacts free.

If you have an astigmatism and are fed up wearing (and losing!) glasses, or simply tired of the daily chore of wearing and maintaining your contact lenses, book a free consultation with Optilase and find out if laser eye surgery is a suitable option for you!

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Patient Reviews

Margaret Mc Clafferty
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Margaret Mc Clafferty
August 29, 2026

I had LASIK done in Dublin after a consultation and follow up in Derry. From the very start, Elizabeth in Derry put me at ease with her approach. Such a warm, helpful way about her. Surgeon Mikhall Hernandez took the time to meet me in advance to explain the process. All the staff- Iwona, Julie, Jess, Robbie (from Donegal!) and Rachael, I really appreciated the way they supported me from start to finish

Aline Bortolotti Secco
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Aline Bortolotti Secco
July 31, 2026

I had a great LASIK experience at Optilase Carrickmines and couldn’t be happier with the results. Dr. Tom Materman is incredibly kind, attentive, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him, as well as the whole Optilase team! I didn’t feel anything during the procedure, which was much easier than I expected. My recovery has also been going really well—I’m only on day two, and everything has been smooth so far. Thank you to everyone at Optilase for the excellent care!

Carl Thorne
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Carl Thorne
July 28, 2026

Life changing. From the initial consultation to the aftercare, Optilase have been friendly, professional and caring every step of the way. No worry or concern was too small for a detailed discussion and helpful response. 3 months after my phakic lens surgery my vision is as good as it ever was with glasses without the hassle. Would recommend the Optilase Carrickmines team to anyone.

Colm Smith
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Colm Smith
July 28, 2026

Very happy with the operation, results and the aftercare

Gerard Mcphillips
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Gerard Mcphillips
July 24, 2026

Very professional and appointments on time

D
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D
July 24, 2026

Great team, great experience. Anyone thinking about doing it, do it. Always on the end of the phone if there was any issues. Highly recommend!

jason farrell
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jason farrell
July 23, 2026

The entire process was smooth professional and completely stress free, I couldn't be happier with my outcome

Tara Dowds
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Tara Dowds
July 22, 2026

Excellent experience in the Cork clinic. Dan O'brien explained everything so throughly. I really appreciated the consultation.

Michael Britton
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Michael Britton
July 22, 2026

Absolutely brilliant service from consultation through to surgery and aftercare. The whole team are really friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone thinking about getting corrective surgery.

Majella Murphy
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Majella Murphy
July 22, 2026

Excellent service and care. Laser eye surgery went well and have had no issues. Highly recommend Sinead and the team in Optilase Cork

Saidhbhe OShea
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Saidhbhe OShea
July 21, 2026

Highly recommended the team in the cork clinic. Very professional and friendly throughout the whole process.

wiktoria szmerdt
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wiktoria szmerdt
July 21, 2026

Lovely staff, very knowledgeable, made me feel calm and comfortable during my consultation

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