Toric Lens Options Solve a Special Vision Correction Challenge for Astigmatism

Vision correction for astigmatism always adds something. It adds time when the eye doctor is performing the tests to determine what works best for you. It adds another number to your prescription, the “cylinder” value. And it can also add cost to the lenses you buy, especially if they’re contacts. The wonderful thing is, this correction allows your eyes to focus when, because of their special shape, regular spherical lenses can’t do the job. This is especially amazing in the case of contacts where the correction, as with glasses, has to be lined up with your eye to work properly. Think about it — how do you make sure your contacts are on straight? They’ve solved the puzzle.

How Toric Lens Shape Matches the Eye’s Shape

Eyes that can use non-toric lens designs are simple in shape, much as a natural drop of water would form. The non-toric lens shape is simply a matter of eye curvature fit and desired focal length. Toric lenses include a cylinder specification that describes a shift from the simple spherical shape. Astigmatism tends to follow specific patterns in its irregularity, so it’s fairly easy for the eye doctor to prescribe correction.

Challenges in Wearing Toric Lens Contacts

Because the astigmatic eye’s shape is not symmetrical, the lens used for correction needs to be matched in shape and position to provide the proper optical effect. For glasses wearers, the frames hold the lenses correctly. For contact lenses, the situation is a bit more complicated. Lenses for astigmatism have positioning techniques that include weighting and often a bit of suction to keep them in place on the eye. This can make them a bit less comfortable and more difficult to remove at the end of the day than non-toric lens types.

When Regular Contacts May Be Enough for Minor Astigmatism

With minor astigmatism, non-toric lens material may, by lying on the surface of your eye in a spherical shape, make up for your eye’s irregularity. For small amounts of astigmatism your eye doctor may offer a basic, non-toric contact lens option even though your eyeglass prescription is more complex, saving you money and increasing your choices. As astigmatism can worsen over time, at some point you may need to change to toric lenses.

Toric Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implants and Cataract Surgery

If you have cataract surgery, when your cloudy natural lens is removed you may have the option of choosing a toric IOL replacement instead of a standard spherical one. This can provide all the correction you need without additional surgery or glasses.

Rely on the Top Eye Doctors in Colorado for a Precision Prescription for Your Specific Eye Shape

For precision contact lens and IOL options that provide great vision even with astigmatism, turn to the top eye doctors in Colorado. Call us today to make an appointment.