If you have astigmatism, you’ve probably heard about toric contact lenses. These specially designed lenses help correct the unique vision issues caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens in the eye. In this blog, we’ll cover what toric contact lenses are, how they work, and why they’re a great solution for astigmatism. Let's dive in!
What Are Toric Contact Lenses?
Toric contact lenses are designed for people with astigmatism, a common refractive error where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape. Unlike standard spherical lenses, which have the same power in every direction, toric lenses are shaped more like a football, offering different powers in various meridians of the lens to correct both near and distant vision. This unique design ensures stable vision, even if the lens shifts slightly while blinking.
How Do Toric Lenses Differ from Other Contact Lenses?
Toric lenses are designed specifically for astigmatism. Unlike regular contact lenses, which have the same power throughout, toric lenses have different powers in different parts of the lens to correct vision at multiple angles. They also feature special weighting or orientation markers to stay in place on the eye, ensuring stable vision. Regular contacts can rotate without affecting vision, but toric lenses need to stay aligned. While they may cost a bit more, toric lenses are essential for providing clear, comfortable vision for those with astigmatism.
How Do Toric Contact Lenses Work?
Toric lenses have different powers at various angles, specifically designed to correct astigmatism by focusing light more evenly onto the retina. Unlike regular lenses, they also feature special orientation markings that ensure they stay in the correct position on the eye, preventing rotation that could blur your vision.
Benefits of Toric Contact Lenses
Astigmatism Correction: Toric lenses offer sharp, clear vision for those with astigmatism, correcting the way light enters the eye.
Comfort: Thanks to advances in lens materials, toric contact lenses are available in soft, breathable options, offering all-day comfort.
Stable Vision: The lenses are weighted to stay in place, so you won’t experience the frustrating movement and blurriness that can happen with regular contacts.
Types of Toric Contact Lenses
Toric contact lenses come in various types to suit your lifestyle and preferences:
Daily Toric Contact Lenses: These are perfect for convenience, as you can wear a fresh pair each day, reducing the risk of irritation or infection.
Monthly Toric Contact Lenses: If you're looking for a more cost-effective option, monthly lenses offer durability and comfort for up to 30 days of wear.
Toric Colored Contact Lenses: Yes, you can even enhance your look with toric colored contacts, which offer astigmatism correction and color-enhancing designs.
