Astigmatism (Toric) intraocular lenses

When having cataract surgery, there are many options to consider for vision correction. However, there is no correct intraocular lens for every person. Every eye is similar to a glove, it has an individual shape that must be fit. For patients with astigmatism, a toric intraocular lens is usually the best fit. The eye shape determines the prescription that a person needs for their eye. There is nearsightedness (where the individual can see up close without glasses, but not far away), farsightedness (where the individual can see better further away) and astigmatism (where the individual cannot see clearly up close and far away). Most patients usually have nearsightedness or farsightedness and many will also have astigmatism. Astigmatism is when the eye is shaped like a football and not a basketball. There is essentially no positive for having astigmatism because it blurs the vision at all distances. We now have intraocular lenses called toric lenses that are able to correct for this astigmatism at the same time as cataract surgery. Here at Reveal Eye Care & Surgery, we offer several different varieties. We offer the tecnis and alcon toric lenses that correct for nearsightedness or farsightedness and astigmatism. These lenses allow one to see at distance or up close, and usually do not require additional prescription. They have almost no downside, but do not usually allow people to completely escape from glasses. We also offer the symfony toric lens and the alcon Restor lens with astigmatism correction. These lenses can allow reading and distance vision while correcting for the astigmatism. They are multifocal lenses so there are trade offs, but most people will have little glasses need when they have these lens implants. If you are in Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Belton, Temple or elsewhere in Central Texas and you have cataracts and would like an evaluation, please call our office at 512-686-1224.