Multifocal Toric IOL

It is a special type of lens implanted during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. A multifocal toric IOL has both a toric design that corrects astigmatism (the irregular shape of the front surface of the eye) and a design that can provide clear vision at multiple distances simultaneously.

It can generally provide clear vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. It facilitates patients’ daily activities—such as reading, using a computer, and focusing on distant objects.

Who Is It Suitable For?

A multifocal toric IOL is ideal for patients who have astigmatism and also presbyopia (age-related difficulty in near vision) or cataracts. These lenses correct both astigmatism and provide clear vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. In this way, they can reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The effectiveness of next-generation smart lens treatment depends on factors such as the shape and condition of the eye, the patient’s lifestyle, and visual goals. Determining the most appropriate lens type for each patient is important. The decision is made after an examination by an experienced ophthalmologist and specific diagnostic tests.

Why Is a Multifocal Toric IOL Preferred?

A multifocal toric IOL is particularly preferred in cataract treatment in certain situations. These situations generally include the following:

Astigmatism is a visual disorder caused by the irregular shape of the cornea (or sometimes the lens) of the eye. The irregular shape prevents incoming light from focusing properly on the back of the eye, resulting in blurred vision.

Toric IOLs are ideal for patients with astigmatism because they have a special design that corrects astigmatism.

Presbyopia is a condition that develops with age and makes it difficult to see near objects clearly. It usually occurs after the age of 40 and affects almost everyone. Multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances. Therefore, they are also ideal for patients with presbyopia.

Another important advantage of smart intraocular lenses is that they generally enable patients to be less dependent on glasses. This is especially applicable to patients who have cataracts in both eyes and undergo lens replacement in both eyes.

For this reason, a multifocal toric IOL is often a commonly preferred option for patients who have astigmatism and seek clear vision at both near and far distances.

How Is a Multifocal Toric IOL Used?

The procedure process is similar to a typical cataract surgery. Under local anesthesia, the doctor makes a micro-incision on the front surface of the eye. Using ultrasound energy, the natural lens of the eye is fragmented and carefully removed.

Then, the folded lens is passed through the incision and positioned correctly inside the eye. The lens usually sits in place of the natural lens and generally does not require additional fixation.

The procedure is typically estimated to take about twenty minutes. Sutures are generally not applied, as small incisions are known to heal on their own.

Finally, determining the right solution for each patient and each situation is a matter that should be discussed with an eye health specialist. Lens selection should take into account a number of factors such as the patient’s general health, lifestyle, visual goals, and current eye health condition. For more information about multifocal toric IOL and for your questions, you may contact Prof. Dr. Ilgaz Yalvaç.