Will Corneal Scar Treatment Reduce Astigmatism Over Time? - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Corneal scarring can indeed contribute to astigmatism, as the irregular surface of the cornea caused by scars can lead to distorted vision. When you have corneal scars, the light entering your eye does not focus evenly on the retina, which is the primary cause of astigmatism. Therefore, treating corneal scars can potentially improve visual acuity and reduce astigmatism, but the extent of improvement can vary based on several factors.

The use of corticosteroid eye drops, as prescribed by your doctor, is a common approach to help reduce inflammation and promote healing of corneal scars. Corticosteroids can help in softening the scar tissue and may assist in the remodeling of the corneal surface. However, it is important to note that while these treatments can help reduce the appearance of scars, they may not completely eliminate them. The degree to which astigmatism improves will depend on the depth and extent of the scarring, as well as the overall health of your cornea.

In some cases, if the scarring is superficial and responds well to treatment, you may experience a noticeable reduction in astigmatism. However, if the scars are deeper or more extensive, the improvement in astigmatism may be limited. Additionally, the healing process can take time, and it may not be immediately apparent how much your vision has improved after the treatment.

If the corticosteroid drops do not provide the desired results, other treatment options may be considered. These can include:
1. Contact Lenses: Specialty contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, can help correct the irregularities caused by corneal scarring and improve vision.

2. Corneal Surgery: In more severe cases, surgical options such as phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) may be considered to remove the scarred tissue and improve the corneal surface. This procedure can help reduce astigmatism by smoothing out the cornea.

3. Corneal Transplant: In cases of significant scarring that severely affects vision, a corneal transplant may be necessary. This involves replacing the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea.

4. Refractive Surgery: Once the corneal scars have been adequately treated and if the cornea is stable, refractive surgery (like LASIK or PRK) may be an option to correct any residual astigmatism.

It is essential to have regular follow-ups with your eye care specialist to monitor the healing process and assess the impact of the treatment on your astigmatism. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and response to treatment.

In summary, while treating corneal scars can potentially reduce astigmatism, the outcome will depend on various factors, including the nature of the scarring and the effectiveness of the treatment. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider to explore the best options for your situation and to set realistic expectations regarding the potential for improvement in your vision.