If you wear contacts and have astigmatism (i.e., an imperfection in the curvature of your eye’s cornea or lens), your eye doctor will likely bring up toric contact lenses. In fact, you may already have a prescription for toric lenses! But what are toric contact lenses exactly? How do they differ from other contact lenses? Why are they a common choice if you have astigmatism? Let’s explore . . .
What Are Toric Contact Lenses?
Also known simply as torics, toric contact lenses are soft contact lenses used to correct astigmatism. Typical soft lenses only correct nearsightedness or farsightedness, but toric contact lenses can also treat an imperfection in the curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens.
They accomplish this through two main features. First, they focus on different parts of the lens, correcting the nearsightedness or farsightedness produced by astigmatism. Second, they are able to rotate to the perfect angle on the front of the eye. Toric contact lenses use special features to maintain the optimal orientation on the eye, including thin-thick zones, lens truncation (where the bottom of the lens is cut off a little), and ballasting (making the lens slightly thicker or heavier). Because of these features, contact lens fittings are extra important when astigmatism is part of the equation.
Because every eye is unique, your eye doctor may need to use some trial and error and experiment with different brands to find the perfect lens for you. They will help you find a contact lens product that balances a great fit and comfort with visual sharpness.
What are toric contact lenses made of?
They are made from either hydrogel or silicone hydrogel, with silicone hydrogel being a little more breathable and, therefore, a little more expensive.
What is the wear schedule of toric contact lenses?
Torics are available in a variety of wear schedules, just like other disposable contact lenses. So whether you’re used to two-week contacts or you prefer daily contacts, you shouldn’t have any problems switching to toric contact lenses.
Are there alternatives to toric contact lenses?
Toric contact lenses are not the only contacts that are specially designed to correct the visual effects of astigmatism. You might also wish to explore rigid gas permeable lenses or hybrid lenses. In fact, All About Vision notes that while people with mild astigmatism usually do well with toric lenses, they may experience even sharper vision with rigid gas permeable or hybrid contacts. Your eye doctor can help you determine which type will work best for you based on your level of astigmatism, your eye characteristics, and other personal preferences.
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Do you have astigmatism? Toric contact lenses may be the perfect option for you.
If you live near southwest Missouri, contact Heffington’s. Since 1975, the Heffington family has been assisting the Springfield community with top-quality eye care and affordable eyeglasses and contacts. One of the unique features of our family-owned business is that we manufacture lenses at our own laboratory, giving us total control over the service and pricing, and we’re happy to pass our savings on to you. To learn more about our products and services, please get in touch with us online, send an email to asktheexperts@heffingtons.com, or give us a call at 417-869-3937 (Optiland location) or 417-882-3937 (House of Vision location). We look forward to hearing from you!