What are Toric Intraocular Lens Implants?
There is also an exciting new type of lens called a toric intraocular lens that is able to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is the most common vision problem and causes blurry vision at all distances. Usually, it is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, although it can also be caused by an irregularly shaped lens. People with mild astigmatism may not even be aware of the problem.
Until the late 1990’s, intraocular lenses were not able to correct astigmatism. The FDA approved the STAAR® toric lens specifically to treat astigmatism in 1998. A second toric intraocular lens, the Alcon AcrySof® Toric IOL, was approved in 2005. If you are astigmatic and have a cataract, this intraocular lens provides you with another excellent option to improve your vision.
During your consultation, cataract examination and cataract surgery scheduling, you will help select the most appropriate lens for you. By reviewing your daily activities and hobbies, and assessing the degree to which you want to be independent of glasses, you and your surgeon will select the best lens for you. You may also be asked to complete a preference questionnaire prior to your evaluation, which will help you consider what is most important to you.
Since each type of lens offers different benefits, our cataract surgeons and their staff will discuss their recommendations with you – based upon your overall objectives. The following information will help you consider different lens options.
STAAR® and Alcon AcrySof ® Toric Intraocular Lens
Toric intraocular lenses are designed for patients who have a significant degree of astigmatism, something that affects up to 20% of cataract patients. If you have minor astigmatism, it may not require correction.
In the past, surgeons would make incisions in the cornea to alter its shape during cataract removal to correct astigmatism. However, for many patients today, the unique shape of toric lenses reduces or corrects astigmatism without further surgery. This lens can treat up to 3.5 diopters of pre-existing astigmatism, and applies the principles that have been successfully used in contact lenses to intraocular lenses.
Monofocal Lens Implants
Presbyopia Correcting Lens Implants
Toric Astigmatism Lens Implants
