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“Toric” refers to a type of lens with different optical powers perpendicular to one another. In this instance, a toric intra-ocular lens (IOL) is a type of IOL inserted during cataract surgery that is specially designed to counteract the abnormal shape of the cornea that causes your vision to be distorted by astigmatism.
You may have heard of toric contact lenses, which can serve the same purpose outside your eye. Unlike contact lenses, a toric IOL is a permanent part of your eye, and never has to be cleaned or taken out!
If you have astigmatism at the time of cataract surgery, your doctor may recommend that you get a toric IOL to reduce your dependence on glasses after the surgery. If you’ve worn glasses for astigmatism your entire life, this could be the first time you don’t have to! Only you and your surgeon can decide if a toric lens is right for you. For surgical options at Mountain View Eye Center that include toric lenses, click here.
Only you and your surgeon can make that decision. If you have existing eye disease that will significantly affect your vision after cataract surgery, such as diabetic retinopathy or advanced corneal scarring, a toric lens may not be right for you.