Toric intraocular lenses – optimal solution for astigmatism

Author: Dr. Victor Derhartunian 1 January 2025

Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are special lenses which, in addition to correcting general defective vision, also compensate for existing astigmatism (curvature of the cornea). They are available in all premium IOL variants and thus enable individual adaptation to your visual requirements.

Understanding astigmatism

With a corneal curvature, the curvature of the cornea is irregular – similar to a spoon, which is more curved in one direction than the other. This leads to

  • Blurred vision at all distances
  • Distorted perception of straight lines
  • Increased sensitivity to glare
  • Faster eye fatigue

Without correction of the astigmatism with a toric lens, these symptoms persist even after lens replacement.

The technology of toric lenses

The principle of astigmatism correction

Toric lenses have a special surface geometry that compensates for the irregular curvature of the cornea. Where the cornea is too curved, the lens compensates for this with a corresponding counter-curvature.

The special features of this innovation:

  • Precisely calculated surface shape for your individual corneal curvature
  • Exact alignment to the axis of the corneal curvature
  • Special stabilization systems for permanent positional stability
  • Can be combined with all modern IOL technologies

Available premium variants

Toric lenses are available in various designs to optimally meet your visual requirements:

Toric monofocal

  • Crystal clear vision at a defined distance
  • Correction of astigmatism
  • Best optical quality and contrast perception
  • Minimal optical side effects

Toric EDOF

  • Extended focus range from the distance to the mid-range
  • Correction of astigmatism
  • Optimal computer working distance
  • Natural visual experience with minimal optical phenomena

Toric multifocal

  • Multiple focal planes for comprehensive spectacle independence
  • Correction of astigmatism
  • Complete coverage of all relevant visual areas
  • Maximum independence from visual aids

Precise diagnostics and individual customization

The exact measurement of your cornea is crucial for the success of toric lens implantation:

Comprehensive preliminary investigation

  • High-resolution topography of your corneal surface
  • Precise determination of the axis of curvature to within 1°
  • Analysis of corneal thickness and structure
  • Calculation of the optimum lens parameters

Individual lens calculation

The choice of the right toric lens is based on various factors:

  • Degree of astigmatism
  • Axis position of the astigmatism
  • Additional visual defects
  • Your individual visual requirements

The surgical procedure for toric lenses

The implantation of a toric lens requires the highest precision and special surgical techniques:

Digital marking systems

Before the operation, the exact alignment axis of the lens is marked using state-of-the-art digital systems:

  • High-precision detection of the correct axle position
  • Consideration of the individual corneal topography
  • Planning the optimal lens position
  • Avoidance of rotation errors

Special implantation technique

The operation is carried out with special care:

  • Exact alignment of the toric lens to the predetermined axis
  • Special stabilization techniques for permanent positional stability
  • Intraoperative control of the correct lens position
  • Optimization of rotational stability

Life with toric lenses

Quality of vision in everyday life

After the healing phase, you can expect a significant improvement in your quality of vision:

  • Clear, undistorted vision even with severe astigmatism
  • Reduced glare sensitivity and better contrast vision
  • Reduction of eye fatigue during prolonged visual activities
  • More natural viewing experience without distortion

Adaptation and stability

Getting used to toric lenses is usually problem-free:

  • Rapid initial improvement in visual quality immediately after the operation
  • Stable lens position thanks to modern haptic design
  • Permanent correction of astigmatism without further deterioration
  • Reliable long-term results thanks to modern materials

Frequently asked questions about toric lenses

At what astigmatism are toric IOLs useful?
Toric IOLs are generally recommended from an astigmatism of 0.75 diopters. For lower values, a special toric correction can often be dispensed with.

How precise is the astigmatism correction?
With correct planning and implantation, astigmatism can be corrected very precisely. Modern surgical techniques enable an accuracy of less than 5 degrees in alignment.

Can toric IOLs twist?
Rotation is possible in the first few days after surgery, but is rare. Modern lens designs offer very good rotational stability. Repositioning can be performed if necessary.

Is the operation more complicated with toric lenses?
For the patient, there is no difference in the surgical procedure. For the surgeon, the precise alignment of the toric lens requires additional experience and special techniques.

Your path to the optimal toric lens

In a detailed consultation:

  • Let us analyze your specific astigmatism in detail
  • Discuss the different toric lens options
  • Create an individual treatment plan
  • Answer all your questions about the operation and aftercare

Our toric lens specialists have extensive experience in correcting astigmatism and will accompany you on your way to clear, undistorted vision.

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Author:

Dr. Victor Derhartunian

Nachdem er sein Handwerk von den beiden Pionieren der Laserchirurgie gelernt hat, gehört Dr. Victor Derhartunian zu den führenden Augenlaser-Chirurgen. Er leitet die Praxis in Wien und kann seine Patienten in fünf Sprachen beraten.