Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK) is a surgical procedure used to  significantly reduce or, in some cases, eliminate astigmatism entirely.

Astigmatism occurs when the shape of the cornea takes on an irregular shape similar to a football as oppose to a symetrical sphere shape.

This irregularity in shape can result in light being scattered and focused in multiple places in the eye rather than one place as normal.

Visual impairments such as distortion can and most likely will be the result if the condition is very severe or left untreated.

By correcting the shape irregularity through flattening the steep area of the cornea with small incisions the eye starts to take on a more normal, sphere shape.

AK has been in used all over the world for over 20 years and is a common procedure.

Ideal candidates for the AK procedure are those who have trouble with normal corrective measure such as glasses and contact lenses for various reasons such as allergies and other irritants. AK is not for those with extreme cases of astigmatism and is most effective for those within low to moderate range.

AK surgery, in many cases, is performed with other refractive surgical procedures.