Toric IOLs

Intraocular lenses are used to correct vision problems during cataract surgery by replacing the old, damaged lens with an artificial lens that clears up and corrects vision, often leaving patients with little to no dependence on glasses.  While cataract surgery corrects cloudy lenses, it still leaves patients with astigmatism with distorted vision.  Toric IOLs are specially designed to correct astigmatism along with overall vision during cataract surgery, offering complete vision correction.

Before Toric IOLs, people with astigmatism would need to undergo corneal refractive surgery after their lenses were implanted, or would remain dependent on glasses or contact lenses.  The advanced Toric IOLs correct the imbalance caused by an irregular cornea shape in patients with astigmatism.  There are several different types of FDA approved Toric IOLs, including AcrySof® Toric Lenses, which can correct up to 3 diopters of astigmatism. 

The risks of a Toric IOL include poor vision as a result of the lens rotating out of position, although this risk exists with any type of intraocular lens.  Toric IOLs are considered safe for most patients with astigmatism and are the only solution to correct both cataract and astigmatism vision problems.  Talk to your doctor to learn more about these lenses and find out if you can enjoy the benefits of Toric IOLs.

Acrysof® Natural IOLs

Our practice now uses AcrySof ® Natural IOLs in cataract surgery. These state-of-the-art lenses not only block ultraviolet light like other IOLs but also filter blue light. Research suggests that blue light may contribute to Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a progressive, irreversible disease that is one of the leading causes of blindness. Previously, patients lost the ability to filter blue light after cataract surgery, possibly increasing their risk for AMD. AcrySof lenses reduce this risk without affecting color perception or the ability to see in dim light. 

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