astigmatism,Cataract,Intraocular Lens,Refractive Lens Exchange

Astigmatism is a very common vision condition affecting millions of people, caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at any distance. In healthy eye, the cornea and lens are shaped like a perfectly round basketball. In astigmatism, however, they are shaped more like a football, causing light to focus unevenly on the retina.

Common symptoms often include:

  • Blurry vision at all distances
  • Difficulty with night driving
  • Squinting to see clearly

A toric intraocular lens (IOL) is specially designed to correct astigmatism during cataract surgery. Unlike standard monofocal lenses, toric IOLs have different optical powers and orientations on the lens, correcting for the irregular shape of the eye and focusing light more accurately on the retina.

Key Benefits of Toric Lenses:

  • Corrects astigmatism and cataracts in one procedure
  • Provides better uncorrected distance vision
  • Reduces dependence on glasses for distance activities
  • Proven safety and effectiveness with minimal complications

For patients with 1.0 diopter or more of astigmatism, toric lenses provide substantially better correction than standard lenses.

For More Information on Toric Lens Options

Toric Lens Availability in Premium Lifestyle Lenses

Toric lens technology is available across a broad range of “lifestyle” lenses, including options for corrections in distance, intermediate, and near vision. Many premium lenses—including multifocal, trifocal, and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) designs— incorporates toric correction. This means patients can reduce their dependence on glasses for most activities while also correcting astigmatism at the time of cataract surgery.

Impact on Surgical Outcomes and Visual Quality

Uncorrected astigmatism after surgery can leave patients with blurred vision, even if the cataract is successfully removed.

With increasing visual demands in modern day to day activities addressing astigmatism during cataract surgery is vital for achieving:

  • Clear, sharp vision
  • Reduced dependence on eyeglasses
  • Enhanced quality of life

Advanced Diagnostics for Optimal Toric Lens Results: 

Advanced diagnostics are strongly encouraged when choosing astigmatism correction with cataract surgery for the best custom-fitted outcome. These diagnostics provide precise measurements of astigmatism and accurate placement of the toric lens, both of which are essential to achieve optimal visual results.  

Standard measurements alone are insufficient for the level of precision required for successful toric lens implantation. The combination of toric lens technology with advanced diagnostic testing now represents the current standard of care for optimal astigmatism correction.

These services are classified as elective upgrades for patients who want the highest quality visual outcomes and are an out-of-pocket expense that is not OHIP insured.

OHIP does not cover astigmatism correction (Toric Lens and Astigmatism Diagnostics) during cataract surgery because it is considered an elective enhancement for refractive vision correction. This additional refractive vision correction would reduce dependence on glasses post surgery and is considered not a medically necessary service. OHIP covers standard cataract surgery with basic lens and basic measurement of the eye.

For More Information on Advanced Diagnostics

TECHNOLOGY HIGHLIGHT: Verion™ Image Guided System Precise Surgical Planning

North Toronto Eye Surgical Centre provides Verion™ image guided assistance during surgery, helping the surgeon align the toric lens precisely to match the patient’s individual eye anatomy. This advanced technology minimizes the risk of misalignment and ensures precise correction of astigmatism.

Advanced Features:

  • High-resolution digital eye imaging
  • Customized surgical planning
  • Real-time intra-operative guidance
  • Precise toric lens alignment assistance

North Toronto Eye Surgical Centre: Complete Package for Excellence

North Toronto Eye Surgical Centre provides these advanced diagnostic services as part of comprehensive toric cataract surgery planning. While these diagnostic measurements are not covered by OHIP, their clinical benefits include:

Enhanced Accuracy:

  • Precise measurement of corneal astigmatism for tailored lens selection
  • Accurate prediction of surgically induced astigmatism
  • Optimal lens power calculations incorporating corneal curvature

Improved Surgical Outcomes:

  • Precise alignment of the toric lens for maximal astigmatism correction
  • Reduced risk of residual astigmatism requiring additional procedures
  • Minimized postoperative lens rotation

Superior Patient Results:

  • Higher rates of 20/20 uncorrected distance vision
  • Greater spectacle independence for distance activities
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction and quality of life

Ready to achieve clear vision after cataract surgery? Schedule your consultation with North Toronto Eye Surgical Centre today to explore your toric lens options and advanced diagnostic testing.