It’s estimated that around 20% of people have some degree of astigmatism. However, this condition is easily treatable. Those who go without treatment usually find it difficult to read small print or clearly see objects that are far away.
Toric lenses treat astigmatism by correcting the way light enters the eye. Since toric lenses are shaped like bow ties, they help the cornea be more symmetrical in shape, creating a smoother surface that helps people see clearly.
Toric IOLs
Advances in Intraocular Lens (IOL) technology now provide a reliable and effective option for patients with astigmatism. Until the recent introduction of Toric IOLs, people who were considered candidates for intraocular lenses could only have their nearsightedness and farsightedness corrected during lens implant surgery. Patients with astigmatism would either require refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, or Limbal Relaxing Incisions) after lens implants or they would remain dependent on glasses or contacts due to uncorrected astigmatism.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is caused by the cornea being more curved in one direction than the other, much like a football cut in half. Astigmatism causes blurry vision both at a distance and near. Toric IOLs are specially shaped IOLs designed to offset the imbalance created by the irregular shape of the cornea. Once implanted and aligned inside the eye, they stay fixed in place thereby reducing pre-existing astigmatism. This gives a patient with astigmatism the best uncorrected (no glasses) vision possible.
There are several manufacturers of Toric IOLs that are available to correct various levels of astigmatism. Your doctor will work with you to select the Toric IOL that is best suited for your eye condition. Toric IOLs are considered “premium” IOLs, which means there may be additional costs associated with these lenses. However, our team will work with you to select the right treatment for your vision, needs and budget.
