Toric lenses are an artificial solution for vision problems associated with cataracts, astigmatism or presbyopia. Toric intraocular lenses in particular replace the crystalline lens surgically and correct refractive errors, so they can also resolve other conditions like myopia or hyperopia.
What are toric intraocular lenses?
Toric intraocular lenses are artificial lenses designed to be implanted inside the eye, replacing the natural lens, thus correcting astigmatism and facilitating vision recovery.
These lenses are common in cataract correction surgeries, where the natural lens must be removed, as there is an accumulation of tissue making the lens opaque, causing blurred vision. They also solve the problems of lack of flexibility in lens associated with other conditions.
As we have already explained, in addition to correcting cataracts and their associated symptoms, toric intraocular lenses can solve any type of refractive error. So, they are an excellent option in the case of vision problems like presbyopia, astigmatism, myopia or hyperopia.
The synthetic materials these lenses are made of prevent the eye from rejecting this foreign body, and facilitate post-surgery recovery.
Types of toric intraocular lens
There are different types of toric intraocular lens and, depending on the individual patient’s vision problems, one or the other is recommended.
- Single vision lens. Monofocal toric intraocular lenses correct only long-distance vision and astigmatism. That is, distances greater than 1 meter.
- Bifocal lens. Toric bifocal intraocular lenses correct vision at two different distances: near and far, and in addition, they can be used for the correction of astigmatism. Both at distances greater than 1 meter, and distances less than 50 centimeters.
- Trifocal lens or toric multifocal intraocular lens. This type of lens offers vision correction at three different distances: near vision, far vision and intermediate vision, and is also a solution for astigmatism. This last option corrects almost all vision distances and gives the patient great autonomy, in most cases making the use of glasses or contact lenses for everyday activities no longer nessary.
Particularly in elderly patients, visual acuity may not recover 100% to what it was in their younger years. However, the improvement is so significant that it allows normal daily tasks to be carried out again.
When are they indicated and the advantages of this type of lens
Only an ophthalmologist can recommend the best indicated toric lenses for each patient and diagnosis, but in a generally we can state that:
- Toric intraocular lenses are ideal to treat cataracts in both elderly and young patients.
- Toric intraocular lenses are indicated for people who, in addition to cataracts, suffer from another type of refractive error.
- Toric intraocular lenses are indicated for healthy eyes that do not present major complications. People affected with moderate or severe glaucoma or with diseases of the macula are not usually suitable for this type of surgery.
Postoperative care
The replacement of the damaged natural lens with a toric intraocular lens is performed through a simple, routine operation, with minimally aggressive and recovery is fairly rapid.
Recommendations to make the process as fast and comfortable as possible are as follows:
- Avoid physical exertion in the weeks after the operation. Wait for the ophthalmologist to discharge you.
- Protect your eyes from sunlight by wearing sunglasses when you are outdoors.
- Strictly follow the instructions of your medication. The drops prescribed will prevent infection and keep your eye well hydrated.
- Do not rub your eyes, or scratch. Avoid bumping the area or sleeping on the operated eye.
- Attend medical check-ups. Good follow-up by the ophthalmological team will help prevent complications and quickly detect any incident or discomfort.
- Avoid immersing your head in swimming pools or hot tubs. These environments increase the risks of infection.
- Do not wear makeup around the eyes until your recovery is complete.
If you consider that toric intraocular lenses may be an ideal solution for your problems with blurred vision caused by cataracts and/or astigmatism, an expert ophthalmology team is waiting for you at Hospiten to advise you.
