Best cataract lens for astigmatism

Which is the best lens for cataracts and astigmatism? A friend had a cataract and astgmaiisim lens replacement and it did not correct his astimatism.My friend was told he had astimatism of the cornea which could not be detected prior to surgery.

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear cbild,

There are some implants which can correct some astigmatism.  As with any surgery, there are possible risks, benefits of such implants depending upon the amount of astigmatism.  There are many implants and different methods to correct astigmatism, including glasses, contact lenses, and surgery.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[JodieJ]

I don't think there is one best astigmatism-correcting contact for everyone.  Toric and RGP contacts both correct astigmatism.  A doctor who is experienced at fitting contacts can determine which contact(s) would work for your friend.

[JodieJ]

Oops, were you asking about which IOL your friend should have gotten (but didn't get)?  Alcon's toric IOL is supposed to do a good job correcting astigmatism.  At this time, your friend could still get either limbal relaxing incisions or laser vision correction (LASIK, PRK) to reduce/eliminate astigmatism.  A contact lens  or glasses would also work.