Surgery to treat cataracts is an outpatient procedure where an ophthalmologist removes the clouded natural lens and replaces it with an artificial lens.  Traditionally, the surgeon implants a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL).  If you have astigmatism, however, you may still experience blurred and distorted vision because a standard IOL cannot correct corneal astigmatism.  To achieve quality distance vision with a standard monofocal IOL, you may still require glasses, contact lenses, or further surgery such as laser vision correction.

If freedom from eyeglasses for distance vision is important to you, you have several options, either during or after cataract surgery to reduce the need for astigmatism corrective lenses: AcrySof Toric IOL, Limbal Relaxing Incision, and/or Blade-Free LASIK. (LASIK in San Francisco)

The AcrySof Toric

The AcrySof Toric (astigmatism-reducing) lens is a foldable lens that an eye surgeon implants during cataract surgery to replace the clouded lens. The unique design of the Acrysof Toric IOL makes it possible to eliminate or reduce corneal astigmatism and significantly improve uncorrected distance vision.

Limbal Relaxing Incision

Limbal relaxing incisions are strategically placed superficial incisions placed on the peripheral cornea, causing it to relax and become more spherical and round.  This allows light to focus more precisely on the retina, causing vision to become sharper and clearer.  Limbal relaxing incisions take minutes to perform and can be used alone or in conjunction with cataract surgery.