During traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon implants a monofocal artificial lens, commonly called an intraocular lens (IOL). However, if you have astigmatism, you may still experience blurred vison, because a standard IOL cannot correct this condition. In January 2007, Medicare approved a new monofocal lens called the AcrySof Toric IOL for patients with cataracts and astigmatism. This lens is highly effective in correcting both conditions and delivering renewed vision.
The benefits
AcrySof Toric IOLs deliver a wide range of benefits when compared to traditional implantable intraocular lens solutions. Some of the most important advantages include:
- The ability to correct astigmatism. The AcrySof lens features a unique design that counteracts the curvature of astigmatism, drastically improving clarity and reducing optical blurring for our patients.
- Enhanced distance vision. AcrySof lenses are very effective in improving distance vision and enabling our patients to see faraway objects clearly once again.
- Increased color perception. Once AcrySof lenses are implanted, many of our patients at the Benjamin Eye Institute experience better, richer and more vibrant color perception, allowing them to see the world with brand new eyes.
In addition, these premium IOLs are very rarely associated with glare or halos around lights, so many of our patients are able to resume night driving after their procedure.
How the lenses work
The AcrySof toric IOL is a foldable, single piece lens that is implanted during cataract surgery to replace the clouded natural lens. Its unique design makes it possible to reduce or eliminate astigmatism and significantly improve uncorrected distance vision. AcrySof toric lenses provide quality distance vision, independent of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Since the AcrySof toric IOL is a monofocal lens, reading glasses will still be necessary. However, for most patients, distance vision is greatly improved with these devices.
What to expect during your procedure
At the Benjamin Eye Institute in Los Angeles, we will thoroughly plan for your surgery to ensure an optimal outcome. Dr. Benjamin or Dr. Golchet will take countless detailed measurements of your eye to select the precise lens and orientation that is right for you.
Once the lens has been selected and you've been counseled on the procedure's risks and benefits, surgery will be scheduled. The morning of your procedure, you will need to avoid eating for several hours to ensure a safe experience. Once you arrive, Dr. Benjamin or Dr. Golchet will numb your eye with special drops or an injection in the area. They may also provide you with a sedative to ensure that you're relaxed throughout the procedure.
To begin the actual surgery, they will make a number of ultra-precise incisions along the edges of the cornea, allowing the surgeons to access the cloudy lens. From there, they will carefully break up and remove the cataract before implanting your premium IOLs. The incisions will seal on their own with time, so most patients do not require sutures.
Immediately after surgery, you will be advised to spend at least 30 minutes in our Los Angeles recovery room so that our team can closely monitor your progress and ensure your safety. As long as there are no complications, you will be cleared to finish the healing process in the comfort of your own home.
