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The 20 to 30 percent of cataract patients each year who also suffer from astigmatism have not always had the best options when it came to achieving complete vision improvement after cataract surgery.

While their cataracts, and possibly any nearsightedness and farsightedness, could all be corrected with an intraocular lens (IOL), these patients’ astigmatism issues were not improved after the cataract removal and lens exchange surgery.

Most of these patients either had to continue wearing corrective lenses or undergo another surgical procedure, such as LASIK, Custom LASIK or PRK.

Today, the cutting-edge technology of premium Toric IOLs makes treating astigmatism in cataract patients a lot easier and more successful.
Toric IOLs and Astigmatism

Astigmatism, which is basically blurry vision from an irregularly shaped cornea, is not a rare condition. In the U.S., it affects one in every six adults. Toric IOLs work to eliminate or reduce astigmatism by correcting the visual imbalance caused by the abnormal shape of the cornea. A “perfect” cornea is circular. A cornea causing astigmatism is oval-shaped.

Here are a few more facts about Toric IOLs:

• They are safe and made from non-toxic, long-lasting silicone or acrylic.
• They are flexible and easily inserted, with no history of after-implantation problems.
• They are removable, if for any reason they need to be replaced with another IOL, such as Crystalens.
• They are considered one of the most ideal solutions for patients with both cataracts and astigmatism.

Two Toric IOLs are manufactured right now, the STAAR® Toric IOL™ and the AcrySof® Toric IOL. The STAAR product has been FDA-approved for a decade now, and the AcrySof IOL has been approved for nearly five years.

Could a Toric IOL be the Right Choice for You?

The first step in determining if a Toric IOL is the best option for you is to have an experienced and knowledgeable cataract surgeon verify that you have a significant degree of astigmatism in addition to a cataract that needs removal.

If your eye doctor finds that you do have a moderate to high level of astigmatism, you may want to pursue a Toric IOL placement.

If you live in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area and want to learn more about Toric IOLs and how they might help you re-establish perfect vision after cataract surgery, please contact Hummel Eye Associates today to schedule an initial consultation.