Lens Replacement Corrects Cataracts Astigmatism

Cataract formation, the gradual clouding of a normally clear eye lens, is usually part of the aging process, but diabetes, smoking, and overexposure to sunlight are known to hasten the progression. Astigmatism (often incorrectly referred to as "a stigmatism") is blurred or distorted vision due to the shape of the cornea.

What cataracts and astigmatism have in common is they can both be corrected with lens replacement, called a TORIC lens implant. This outpatient procedure, which takes approximately 30 minutes (plus an hour for recovery), is able to reduce or eliminate astigmatism and correct cataracts at the same time, resulting in crisper vision.

"If your cornea has a baseball shape, you don't have astigmatism," explains Dr. Nayeb-Hashemi, an ophthalmologist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. "However, if your cornea has a football shape, it is astigmatic – and this new lens can compensate for that."

Whether a patient is a suitable candidate for this procedure is determined during their initial appointment.

"If you have cataracts, astigmatism or other vision problems, you should meet with a qualified ophthalmologist for a comprehensive examination and discuss available treatment options, including the TORIC lens replacement," concludes Dr. Nayeb-Hashemi.