If you’ve been told you have astigmatism and are tired of dealing with glasses or contacts, you’re not alone—and there are long-term solutions. One option more people are turning to is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) with special lenses designed to correct astigmatism. At Tersigni Vision, we take the time to explain your options clearly so you can make the best decision for your vision and lifestyle. In this article, we’ll walk you through how toric lenses work and who they might be right for. Schedule a consultation with Tersigni Vision to learn if this could be the right next step for you.
How does astigmatism affect vision and how can a toric lens help?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular curvature, which causes blurred vision and poor visual perception. A toric lens is a specialized corrective lens with different powers in specific zones that compensate for this uneven shape, helping light focus properly on the retina. When properly implanted, the toric lens aligns with the refraction axis of the eye, improving visual acuity and reducing the need for glasses. Toric lenses are part of the broader field of ophthalmology and are most often used during refractive surgery or cataract surgery to provide clearer vision at distance or other focal points.
What is Refractive Lens Exchange and how does it correct astigmatism?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as clear lens extraction, is a type of eye surgery in which the natural lens of the human eye is replaced with an intraocular lens to correct a refractive error such as astigmatism, presbyopia, myopia, or farsightedness. This option is ideal for adults over 40 who want to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lens use. Dr. Tersigni uses advanced technology and corneal topography during a comprehensive exam to ensure the correct lens type and power are selected for each patient. The procedure involves a small surgical incision and typically requires only local anesthesia with eye drop medication.
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What types of toric intraocular lenses are available for RLE?
Patients have multiple premium options when it comes to toric intraocular lenses. Monofocal toric lenses correct astigmatism and provide sharp vision at a single focal range, such as distance, but usually require progressive lens or reading glasses for close tasks. Multifocal toric lenses improve vision at near, intermediate, and far ranges and are often chosen by those wanting to reduce or eliminate glasses entirely. Extended depth of focus (EDOF) toric lenses offer a broader range of vision with fewer side effects like glare and halos. Accommodating toric lenses, though less common, move or shift within the eye to provide a more natural focus. Dr. Tersigni helps each candidate select the most suitable implant based on their unique visual goals and health status.
How are toric lenses aligned during surgery?
During the procedure, the toric lens must be rotated to align with the precise axis of astigmatism identified in preoperative testing. Proper alignment is essential to ensure the implant corrects the uneven curvature of the cornea and enhances visual perception. Using advanced imaging and corneal topography, Dr. Tersigni marks the alignment axis and positions the intraocular lens accurately within the eye. Once aligned, the lens remains stable to maintain consistent visual acuity and minimize the need for glasses.
Who is a good candidate for RLE with toric lenses?
An ideal candidate for RLE with a toric lens is someone over age 40 who has moderate to high astigmatism, is experiencing presbyopia, or is not eligible for LASIK due to corneal thickness or other factors. People who want long-term freedom from glasses or contact lens use, or who have been told they may not be suited for laser eye surgery, often benefit from this option. The consultation process includes a full exam of the human eye, assessment of visual perception, and discussion about lifestyle needs. Dr. Tersigni also considers how often a patient engages in activities like reading, using a computer, or watching television, as these can influence which lens will best support their everyday visual needs.
How effective are toric lenses compared to other astigmatism treatments?
Toric lens implantation during RLE or cataract surgery has proven to be one of the most effective methods for correcting moderate to high astigmatism. Compared to standard monofocal lens options, in many people, toric lenses offer better distance vision and reduce reliance on glasses. Treatments like corneal relaxing incisions or laser procedures such as LASIK or PRK may be more suitable for lower degrees of astigmatism.
Can RLE with toric lenses eliminate the need for glasses completely?
RLE with toric lenses can greatly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses, depending on the type of lens selected and individual eye characteristics. Studies show that more than 90% of patients who receive multifocal toric lenses no longer rely on glasses for their daily activities. For those choosing monofocal toric lenses, glasses are typically only needed for reading or near tasks. Factors like residual refractive error, pupil size, or sensitivity to glare may influence overall satisfaction. Dr. Tersigni ensures that each patient understands their visual goals, sets realistic expectations, and selects the implant that aligns with their lifestyle.
What are the main differences between monofocal and multifocal toric lenses?
The main difference between monofocal and multifocal toric lenses lies in the range of vision they provide. A monofocal toric lens is designed for one focal point, typically distance or near, and is often used in monovision or blended vision RLE. A multifocal toric lens, on the other hand, is engineered to offer clarity at near, intermediate, and far distances, often reducing the need for corrective lens use altogether. While monofocal lenses may offer better contrast sensitivity in dim settings like watching television, multifocal lenses can cause minor visual side effects such as halos or glare. Dr. Tersigni carefully explains these differences during the consultation so patients can make informed decisions.
Why can’t standard RLE correct astigmatism without toric lenses?
Standard intraocular lenses used in RLE are spherical and have the same power across the entire lens, which means they cannot address the uneven curvature caused by astigmatism. Without a toric lens, refractive error can remain after surgery, leading to continued blurred vision and the need for glasses or contact lens correction. Only a toric lens has the optical design to match the irregular shape of the cornea. Dr. Tersigni uses precise measurements of the eye’s shape and refraction to determine the correct toric lens power and axis, ensuring optimal results.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision?
For adults living with astigmatism and other refractive errors, Refractive Lens Exchange with a toric lens offers a permanent, highly effective solution. By replacing the natural lens with an implant tailored to the individual patient, Dr. Tersigni—a highly skilled refractive surgeon—helps reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lens use while restoring clearer visual perception. With multiple premium lens options, including monofocal, multifocal, and EDOF designs, the procedure can be customized to fit each person’s unique lifestyle and vision goals. If you’re exploring alternatives to LASIK or progressive lens eyewear and want to correct your astigmatism long-term, schedule a consultation with Dr. Tersigni today to see if you’re a good candidate for this advanced vision correction procedure.
source https://www.tersignivision.com/custom-lens-replacement/astigmatism-correcting-refractive-lens-exchange-toric-lens-options-explained/