Astigmatism Laser Correction Surgery in Jeddah | The Latest Techniques for Treating Astigmatism at Batal Eye Specialty Center

Astigmatism is one of the most common vision disorders, directly affecting the sharpness and quality of sight. With the advancement of ophthalmology and modern laser technologies, correcting astigmatism can now be done in just a few minutes with high precision. In this article from Batal Eye Specialty Center in Jeddah, we explain everything you need to know about astigmatism laser correction surgery — from diagnosis and preparation to the different treatment techniques, advantages, cost, and recovery phase after the procedure.

What Is Astigmatism Laser Correction Surgery?

It is an advanced medical procedure that aims to reshape the surface of the cornea using precise laser beams to correct irregular curvatures that cause blurred vision. The procedure adjusts how light rays bend inside the eye so that they focus properly on the retina, allowing the patient to enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. This operation is considered safe and quick, typically lasting no more than ten minutes per eye, performed under local anesthesia using numbing eye drops, without any traditional surgical cuts or stitches.

When Do You Need the Surgery?

Astigmatism correction by laser may be the best solution in the following cases:

• When suffering from moderate or severe corneal astigmatism that causes constant blurred vision.
• If glasses or contact lenses no longer provide stable or comfortable vision.
• When the patient wishes to live without glasses for professional or personal reasons.
• When vision measurements have been stable for at least one year.
  Before proceeding, the doctor performs a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate corneal thickness, vision stability, and ensure the eye is suitable for this procedure.

Types of Astigmatism Laser Correction Surgeries

There are several techniques used to correct astigmatism, and the suitable method depends on the patient’s condition and corneal measurements.

1. LASIK Surgery

This is the most common type of vision correction. The surgeon creates a thin flap on the surface of the cornea using a femtosecond laser, then reshapes the inner layer with an excimer laser to correct the irregularity. The flap is then repositioned without the need for stitches. Most patients regain clear vision within 24 hours, with only slight discomfort during the first day.

2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

This technique suits people with thin corneas that do not allow LASIK. The surface layer of the cornea is temporarily removed, and then the laser reshapes the cornea to correct astigmatism. A therapeutic contact lens is placed to protect the eye during healing. Recovery takes a few days, and the final vision result is as good as LASIK.

3. SMILE Technique

This is the most advanced and modern method among laser correction surgeries. It uses only the femtosecond laser to remove a tiny piece of corneal tissue through a very small incision of less than 2 mm, without lifting a flap or removing the surface layer.
This technique offers:

• Reduced risk of dry eyes after surgery.
• Faster recovery.
• Greater safety for active individuals and athletes.

Preparation Before the Surgery

To ensure success and achieve the best visual outcome, your doctor will recommend several steps before the procedure:

• Stop wearing contact lenses 5–7 days before the operation.
• Avoid eye makeup or creams on the day of surgery.
• Do not use strong perfumes or hair products that may affect sterilization.
• Get adequate rest and sleep the night before.
• Eat a light meal before coming; fasting is not required.
  Before the surgery, the doctor performs detailed tests including corneal thickness measurement, refraction maps, and eye pressure, to determine the most suitable technique.

Steps of the Surgery

The operation is performed in a fully equipped laser operating room and includes the following stages:

1. Numbing the eye with special drops to prevent pain.
2. Fixing the eyelid with a device to keep the eye open.
3. Applying the laser according to pre-programmed data on a computer system.
4. Repositioning the flap or closing the incision, depending on the technique (LASIK or SMILE).
5. Applying moisturizing drops and a transparent protective lens if needed.
   The procedure takes around 10 minutes per eye, and the patient can go home the same day.

Recovery Period After Astigmatism Laser Correction Surgery

Vision improvement begins gradually within 24 to 48 hours after the operation, while the final result stabilizes within a week. During recovery, patients should:

• Avoid rubbing or touching their eyes.
• Use prescribed eye drops (moisturizing and anti-inflammatory).
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce light sensitivity.
• Avoid swimming or steam for two weeks.
• Limit screen time during the first three days.
  With proper care, most patients regain very clear vision without glasses within a week to ten days.

Advantages of Astigmatism Laser Correction at Batal Eye Specialty Center

Batal Eye Specialty Center in Jeddah is one of the leading facilities in Saudi Arabia for vision correction. It offers several advantages ensuring safe and effective results:

• Use of the latest global laser systems (Femtosecond and Excimer).
• Supervision by experienced ophthalmology and refractive surgery consultants.
• Accurate preoperative assessment to personalize the treatment plan.
• Comprehensive post-operative care for safe and fast recovery.
• High success rate exceeding 98% of cases.
  Patients also benefit from free pre-surgery consultations and personalized follow-up after the procedure.

Cost of Astigmatism Laser Correction Surgery in Jeddah

The cost of astigmatism laser correction at Batal Eye Specialty Center starts from 3000 SAR per eye, depending on the chosen technique (LASIK, PRK, or SMILE) and the eye condition after examination. Although medical insurance usually doesn’t cover this procedure, the center offers flexible payment options and seasonal discounts for patients.

When Is the Surgery Not Recommended?

Although the procedure is very safe, your doctor may postpone it in the following cases:

• Active keratoconus or structural corneal weakness.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding due to hormonal changes.
• Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Very thin cornea that cannot be reshaped safely.
  In these situations, the doctor may suggest alternative solutions such as special corrective lenses or staged treatment.

Expected Results and Possible Side Effects

Complications after astigmatism correction surgery are very rare, especially in advanced medical centers. Expected outcomes include:

• Immediate improvement in vision clarity within one to two days.
• Permanent visual stability within a week.
• Temporary mild dryness or light sensitivity that disappears within weeks.
  Any minor symptoms can be managed with lubricating drops and follow-up visits.

Tips for Maintaining the Results

• Attend all post-surgery follow-up appointments.
• Use your prescribed eye drops as directed.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes during the first month.
• Eat foods rich in Vitamin A and Omega-3 to support corneal health.
• Schedule an annual eye exam to maintain visual stability.

Why Choose Batal Eye Specialty Center for Astigmatism Correction?

At Batal Eye Specialty Center in Jeddah, we believe clear vision is every patient’s right. We offer the most advanced laser correction technologies in a fully integrated treatment experience that includes:

• 3D digital diagnostic systems for maximum accuracy.
• Operating rooms equipped to international standards.
• A Saudi and international medical team specialized in vision correction.
• Precise pre- and post-surgery follow-up to ensure the best results.

Book Your Eye Examination Today

If you suffer from blurred vision caused by astigmatism or wish to get rid of your glasses, book your eye examination today at Batal Eye Specialty Center in Jeddah. Let our refractive surgery specialists choose the most suitable technique to help you regain clear, confident vision.