Correcting Astigmatism During Cataract Surgery with Toric Intraocular Lenses

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that significantly improves your vision and quality of life. But did you know that if you have astigmatism, you can correct it during the same procedure?

Board-certified ophthalmologist E. Joseph Nadji, MD uses toric intraocular lenses (IOLS) to replace your clouded lens and address astigmatism, giving you the clearer, sharper vision you’ve been waiting for. 

Here’s what we want you to know:

Astigmatism explained

Astigmatism impacts your vision due to the following: 

Irregular shaped cornea or lens 

If you have astigmatism, your cornea or lens is shaped like a football instead of round.  This can lead to distorted or blurred vision, making it difficult to see fine details up close and at a distance. 

Symptoms 

Common symptoms of astigmatism include blurry vision, eye strain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night. You may also have nearsightedness or farsightedness, which requires corrective lenses to see clearly. 

Understanding toric intraocular lenses

Toric IOLs are a type of lens implant designed specifically for people with astigmatism who are undergoing cataract surgery. Here’s what makes this lens so effective: 

Dual purpose 

During cataract surgery, we remove your clouded natural lens and replace it with an artificial IOL. A toric IOL not only replaces the cataract-affected lens but also corrects astigmatism by compensating for the irregular shape of your cornea. 

Customized for you

Toric IOLs are custom-made based on the specific measurements of your eye. This ensures your lens is positioned perfectly to correct your astigmatism and improve your overall vision.

Long-lasting solutions 

Once in place, a toric IOL provides a permanent correction for astigmatism, reducing or even fully eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses for distance vision. 

Benefits of correcting astigmatism during cataract surgery 

Choosing a toric IOL during cataract surgery offers several advantages and benefits. Here are just some you may want to consider: 

Sharper vision

By correcting your astigmatism, toric IOLs provide clearer, sharper vision than standard IOLs. You’ll also notice an improvement in both your near and distance vision. 

Reduced dependence on glasses 

You may also find that you need glasses or contact lenses way less for distance vision after your surgery. This can completely transform and enhance your daily life, making activities like driving or watching TV much easier. 

One surgery — multiple benefits 

Correcting both cataracts and astigmatism in a single procedure is convenient and efficient. It saves you from needing a separate surgery or additional treatments later on. 

Quick recovery

Recovery time for cataract surgery with toric IOLs is similar to standard cataract surgery. Most of our patients experience improved vision within a few days and can return to their normal activities shortly after. 

Ultimately, if you have astigmatism and are considering cataract surgery, toric intraocular lenses offer a unique opportunity to correct both of these issues at one time. If you’re ready for sharper vision and reduced dependence on glasses, toric IOLS can enhance your quality of life and provide the visual clarity you’ve been dreaming of. 

If you’re ready to learn more, call us at 424-275-6586 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment with Dr. Nadji today!