Cataract Surgery
microscope, a Toric Lens has markers indicating the correcting axis. The intraocular lens must be precisely positioned so that the axis aligns with the steepest part of the cornea. Perfect alignment is crucial; for every 3 degrees of misalignment, the Toric Lens is 10% less effective at correcting astigmatism. An Image Guided System is used for precise Toric Lens placement. There are some risks with Toric Lenses: A Toric Lens may not fully correct the astigmatism and you may still need spectacles for distance. Further correction of this remaining astigmatism may not be possible. • If complications occur during cataract surgery, it may not be possible to insert a Toric Lens, and a non-toric, standard monofocal lens may need to be inserted instead. • The Toric Lens can rotate and a second operation may be needed to rotate the Toric Lens back into position for best vision, with the additional risk of further surgery.
THIRD CONSIDERATION
• Monovision (distance vision in one eye and near vision in the other): Some people want monovision to try and minimise the need for spectacles. If you choose this option, you may find it difficult to adjust, as only one eye is used at a time. You may still need spectacles for some tasks such as computer work or night driving. If you are considering monovision, it is a good idea to have a trial with contact lenses first – this can be discussed and organised with your local optometrist. Despite our best efforts is not always possible to guarantee absolute accuracy with vision outcomes following cataract surgery due to the lens calculations being 90-95% accurate. Sometimes, patients may still require moderately strong spectacles following cataract surgery despite correctly taken measurements and routine surgery. Even with a ‘perfect’ cataract surgery outcome, you will always need to buy spectacles again, for some activities.
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