Yes, cataract surgery can correct astigmatism, but the extent of correction depends on the approach taken during the procedure. Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which leads to blurred or distorted vision. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), and this process offers a chance to correct refractive errors, including astigmatism. Although cataracts and astigmatism are unrelated eye conditions they can be addressed at the same time during the same procedure.
Cataract Surgery and Astigmatism
Traditionally, cataract surgery involves removing the cataract and implanting a monofocal IOL, which typically corrects distance vision but does not address astigmatism. However, many patients with cataracts also have some degree of astigmatism, which can limit the overall improvement in visual quality after surgery. In these cases, additional steps can be taken during the surgery to correct astigmatism. 
Correcting Astigmatism with Toric IOLs
One of the most common and effective ways to address astigmatism during cataract surgery is the use of a toric intraocular lens (IOL). A toric IOL is specifically designed with different powers in different meridians, which allows it to compensate for the irregular shape of the cornea. These lenses are aligned with the axis of astigmatism to correct it and improve visual outcomes.
Toric IOLs have been shown to be highly effective in reducing or eliminating astigmatism. According to studies, approximately 80-90% of patients who receive a toric IOL report excellent visual outcomes, with a significant reduction in astigmatism. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery found that over 85% of patients experienced a postoperative astigmatism of 1.0 diopter or less after receiving a toric lens.
Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) and Astigmatism
In some cases, cataract surgeons may also perform limbal relaxing incisions (LRI) during the surgery. These are small incisions made at the edge of the cornea to reduce astigmatism. LRIs are particularly useful for patients with mild to moderate astigmatism, typically between 1.0 and 2.0 diopters. The results are generally good, though LRIs are not as precise as toric IOLs in correcting astigmatism, and they often require additional correction with glasses or contact lenses.
Studies indicate that LRIs can reduce astigmatism by 0.75 to 1.5 diopters, depending on the extent and placement of the incisions. While they are effective, they tend to provide less predictable results compared to toric IOLs, especially in patients with higher degrees of astigmatism.
Astigmatism Correction and Visual Outcomes
When astigmatism is properly corrected during cataract surgery, patients often experience significant improvements in their visual quality of life. A study published in Ophthalmology found that 88% of patients who received toric IOLs achieved 20/25 vision or better after surgery, with many reporting greater satisfaction compared to patients who had no astigmatism correction.
Furthermore, astigmatism correction during cataract surgery can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses for both distance and near vision, especially if patients opt for multifocal IOLs, which correct for both presbyopia and astigmatism.
Cataract Surgery & Astigmatism in Long Beach. – SoCal Eye
Cataract surgery offers an excellent opportunity to correct astigmatism, especially with the use of toric IOLs. By targeting the underlying astigmatism, patients can achieve better visual outcomes, fewer post-surgical complications, and a higher quality of life. With the right combination of surgical techniques and lens technology, many patients experience a dramatic reduction or complete elimination of astigmatism after cataract surgery.
All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye Cataract Specialist or Cataract Surgeon in Long Beach. Cataract Treatment for patients in Long Beach, Cypress, Cerritos and Garden Grove. Schedule an Appointment today at (562) 531-2020 or send us an Online Consultation Request
