Correcting Astigmatism with Contact Lenses
When the cornea, the clear window on the front of the eye, is the same shape in all directions it requires a standard or spherical contact lens to correct vision. When there is an irregularity to the corneal shape it is known as astigmatism. A soft lens is comfortable because it drapes over the cornea but that irregularity resulting from astigmatism can be transferred through the lens resulting in less than acceptable vision. When a patient has even a modest amount of astigmatism we use a toric contact lens to optimize their vision and comfort. “Toric” is Latin for “two curves.” The soft toric lens is just like your eyeglass lenses, it has two curves cut on the back of it to align to the front of your eye providing comfortable clear vision. Toric lenses can be designed in soft, gas permeable or hybrid materials.
The professionals at Parrelli Optical® can help you determine the best correction for your eyes and your lifestyle.