Astigmatism

A common refractive error where the eye's shape causes blurred or distorted vision at all distances.

35+ Years of Trusted Eye Care Experience

For over 30 years, we’ve helped thousands of Kiwis see clearly with expert care built on trust and real results. From your first consultation to post-surgery support, we’re here with personal, consistent care you can count on.

Industry-Leading Technology & Safety Protocols

We go beyond the standard by partnering with ZEISS, a global leader in optical technology. Their advanced laser systems allow for precise, personalised treatment and consistently safe results across a wide range of vision conditions.

Specialised Team and Personalised Aftercare

Our expert team supports you through every step of your laser eye journey, from surgery to personalised aftercare. With detailed post-op checks and ongoing follow-ups, we make sure you feel confident, informed and cared for.

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Many people with astigmatism come to us believing they’re not eligible for laser eye surgery.

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This belief often traces back to outdated information from the early days of laser vision correction. But the reality is, laser eye surgery has been safely and effectively treating astigmatism for years.

We regularly see patients who were told they weren’t suitable – or who simply thought they had to put up with blurred or distorted vision. The good news? Thanks to today’s cutting-edge laser technology, clearer vision is well within reach.

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What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a very common eye condition in New Zealand. It occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) has an uneven shape – more like a rugby ball than a round soccer ball. This irregular curve causes light to focus at multiple points in the eye rather than a single sharp point, resulting in:

Blurred or fuzzy vision at all distances
Distortion (lines may look wavy or shadowed)
Eye strain or fatigue
Headaches or squinting

Astigmatism often appears alongside other vision problems, such as:

Short-sightedness (myopia)
Long-sightedness (hyperopia)

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What Causes Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is usually present from birth and tends to run in families. But it can also be caused or worsened by:

Eye injuries or surgery (e.g. cataract surgery)
Eye disease
Natural changes in the shape of the eye over time
A condition called keratoconus, where the cornea thins and becomes cone-shaped

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How Is Astigmatism Diagnosed?

A routine eye test with your optometrist can easily detect astigmatism. Tests may include:

Visual acuity test (reading a letter chart)
Corneal curvature measurement (keratometry)
Refraction test (to find the best prescription lenses)

If your symptoms include headaches, eye strain, or trouble seeing clearly at night, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis means more options for effective treatment.

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Can Laser Eye Surgery Fix Astigmatism?

Yes. Laser eye surgery can permanently correct astigmatism by reshaping the front of the eye.

Our advanced ZEISS laser systems gently sculpt the cornea into a more regular shape – so light can focus on a single point on the retina, producing sharp, clear vision.

We offer the full range of modern laser procedures, including:

Am I Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?

Most people with astigmatism are suitable, especially with today’s laser technology. During your comprehensive assessment, we’ll evaluate:

The shape and thickness of your cornea
The level and type of astigmatism
Your overall eye health
Your lifestyle and visual goals

Even if you’ve been told in the past you weren’t eligible, there’s a strong chance that new techniques may now make it possible.

For some patients or those with early signs of cataracts, lens replacement surgery with a toric intraocular lens (IOL) may be a more effective solution. These premium lenses can correct both astigmatism and age-related vision loss in one procedure.

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Is Laser Eye Surgery Safe for Astigmatism?

Yes. Laser eye surgery for astigmatism is considered very safe and highly effective.

Millions of procedures are performed each year around the world – including thousands in New Zealand – with high satisfaction and low complication rates. Our clinic uses industry-leading ZEISS diagnostic and laser platforms, backed by:

Over 35 years of experience
Expert surgeons
A commitment to personalised care and safety

We also offer full aftercare and laser top-up enhancements should your vision change over time.

Say Goodbye to Blurred Vision

You don’t have to keep putting up with glasses, contacts, or hazy vision. If astigmatism is holding you back – whether you’ve had it for years or just recently been diagnosed – now is the time to find out if laser eye surgery can help.

Book your free assessment today and discover how we can help you see clearly and confidently, every single day.