Dr Suraj Munjal

DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

  • MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology
  • Founder & CMD of The Sight Avenue group of Hospitals
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DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

  • MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology
  • Founder & CMD of The Sight Avenue group of Hospitals

DR. SURAJ MUNJAL

  • MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology
  • Founder & CMD of
  • The Sight Avenue group of Hospitals

Toric ICL: A Complete Guide to Astigmatism Correction

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

    How long does the Toric ICL procedure take?
    1. Each eye takes about 20-30 minutes, and both eyes can usually be treated on the same day.

    Most patients achieve excellent vision without glasses, though some may need reading glasses or correction for specific tasks.

    No, the surgery is not painful. Local anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, and most patients report only mild discomfort.

    Introduction 

    Astigmatism and myopia (nearsightedness) are common vision problems affecting millions of people. Toric Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is an advanced and effective solution for those looking to correct both conditions without the need for glasses or contact lenses. This procedure offers long-lasting results with the option of reversibility. In this guide, we will discuss all aspects of Toric ICL, including how it works, its benefits, who is eligible, the procedure, recovery, and more.

    What is Toric ICL?

    Toric ICL is a specially designed intraocular lens made from Collamer, a biocompatible material, used to treat astigmatism and myopia. Unlike external solutions such as glasses or contact lenses, the Toric ICL is implanted inside the eye. It is placed between the iris and the natural lens, helping correct refractive errors by altering how light focuses on the retina.

    Who is a Candidate for Toric ICL?

    Toric ICL is ideal for individuals who:

    • Have astigmatism and myopia: It is most suitable for moderate to severe levels of these conditions.
    • Are 21-45 years old: Candidates must have a stable prescription for at least one year.
    • Cannot undergo LASIK: Those with thin or irregular corneas or other LASIK contraindications.
    • Seek a reversible solution: Unlike LASIK, the lens can be removed or replaced if needed.

    Exclusions include those with chronic eye infections or other specific eye health conditions.

    How Does Toric ICL Work?

    Toric ICL addresses astigmatism by compensating for the uneven curvature of the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. For patients with myopia, the lens alters how light bends, correcting nearsightedness. This dual function makes it highly effective for people with multiple refractive errors.

    Benefits of Toric ICL

    1. High-Quality Vision: Studies show that over 95% of patients achieve 20/20 or better vision post-surgery.
    2. Reversible: Unlike LASIK, Toric ICL can be removed or replaced if necessary.
    3. UV Protection: The Collamer material naturally blocks harmful UV rays.
    4. Low Maintenance: Since the lens is implanted in the eye, it does not require daily cleaning or care.
    5. Quick Recovery: Patients typically experience minimal downtime, resuming normal activities within a few days.
    6. Reduced Dry Eye Risk: Unlike LASIK, the procedure has a much lower chance of causing dry eyes.

    Toric ICL Procedure

    The Toric ICL procedure is a relatively straightforward outpatient surgery, taking around 20-30 minutes per eye. The key steps include:

    1. Pre-Surgical Assessment: Detailed eye measurements are taken to design the correct lens.
    2. Anesthesia: Local anesthetic drops are applied to numb the eye.
    3. Small Incision: A tiny incision is made in the cornea, through which the folded lens is inserted.
    4. Lens Placement: The lens unfolds and is positioned between the iris and natural lens.
    5. Post-Surgery Care: Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed, and follow-up visits ensure proper healing.

    Recovery

    Post-surgery recovery is generally quick:

    • Initial Discomfort: Mild discomfort or blurry vision may occur in the first 1-2 days.
    • Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups are crucial to ensure the lens is positioned correctly.
    • Eye Drops: Use of prescribed drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
    • Activity Restrictions: Avoid rubbing the eyes and heavy exercise for the first few weeks.

    Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days, and full visual clarity typically develops over the course of several weeks.

    Risks of Toric ICL

    While Toric ICL is a safe and highly effective procedure, there are some risks to consider:

    • Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a small risk of infection, but it is rare and usually treatable with antibiotics.
    • Increased Eye Pressure: Some patients may experience elevated intraocular pressure, which can be managed with medication.
    • Lens Misalignment: In rare cases, the lens may shift slightly, requiring an adjustment or minor corrective procedure.
    • Night Glare: Some patients report glare or halos around lights, especially at night, but this usually resolves over time.

    Most of these risks are minimized with proper aftercare and regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist.

    Toric ICL vs. LASIK

    Both Toric ICL and LASIK are effective in correcting refractive errors, but they are suited for different types of patients:

    FeatureToric ICLLASIK
    ProcedureImplantable lensReshapes cornea with laser
    Best forSevere myopia/astigmatismMild/moderate refractive errors
    ReversibilityReversiblePermanent
    Recovery2-3 days24-48 hours
    UV ProtectionYesNo
    Dry Eye RiskLowHigher
    CostHigher (₹1,50,000+ per eye)Lower (₹50,000+ per eye)
    Vision StabilityLong-lasting, stableStable but may need enhancements

    Ultimately, the decision between Toric ICL and LASIK should be made after consulting with an experienced eye specialist like Dr. Suraj Munjal, who can recommend the best procedure based on your unique needs.

    Conclusion

    Toric ICL is a groundbreaking solution for individuals with astigmatism and myopia, providing long-term vision correction without the need for glasses or contact lenses. With a high success rate, minimal risks, and the added benefit of reversibility, it’s an excellent option for those who are not candidates for LASIK or want an alternative that offers flexibility and safety.

    If you’re considering Toric ICL or want to know more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Suraj Munjal for personalized advice and expert care. For more details, visit our website.

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