What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a condition that causes blurred vision, due to irregularities in the shape of the cornea. A typical cornea is round, but patients that have astigmatism have oval-shaped corneas, that look more like a football. Because of this irregular shape, light rays do not focus properly on the retina, which causes blurred vision, and in some cases, double vision. Patients with astigmatism need glasses or contact lenses to correct it.
Toric IOLs
With the Toric IOL, offered at the Houston, Katy, and Spring offices of the Whitsett Vision Group, our doctors can now treat who have cataracts and also suffer from astigmatism. The lens is made of very soft, flexible material and is commonly used with astigmatic cataract patients because it is designed to conform to the natural shape of the lens, staying centered and stable.
In cataract surgery with a conventional lens, the surgeon replaces the natural lens with a clear, monofocal lens. However, if you also suffer from astigmatism, a conventional lens will likely not correct blurred or distorted vision. Toric IOLs are designed to eliminate this secondary condition by correcting astigmatism. Because of the organic quality of the Toric IOL, the human eye adapts to it quickly to provide higher quality vision.
Toric Lens Options
Your surgeon will make a tiny incision, less than 1/8 of an inch wide, and use gentle vacuum suction to remove the natural lens from your eye. Next, through the same micro-incision, your toric IOL will be inserted, unfolded, and placed into the proper position. The incision is “self-healing” and usually requires no stitches — it heals quickly and provides a much more comfortable recuperation. The whole procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes.
If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, and wish to correct your astigmatism and reduce your dependence on glasses after cataract surgery, you may be a good candidate for a Toric IOL. Our doctors and staff will perform diagnostic testing, and discuss your lifestyle and visual goals to determine if this lens is a good fit for you. The best way to find out if you are a candidate is to schedule a cataract consultation.
Ready to Schedule?
If you’re ready to schedule a cataract consultation, click here to request an appointment, or call us today at (713) 365-9099!