Understanding Toric Contact Lenses
Toric contact lenses are prescription based contact lenses that are used to correct astigmatism. Traditionally, people with astigmatism avoided contact lenses, however with toric contact lenses, this is no longer necessary. Toric contact lenses come in many different forms, including, colored toric contact lenses, disposable toric contact lenses and soft toric lenses. Check out the truly amazing choices!
What are toric contact lenses made from?
Toric contact lenses are made in a similar way to ‘ordinary’ contact lenses; they can be either soft or rigid gas permeable (RGP).
How do toric lens work?
Toric contact lenses are curved, based on the individuals needs so that the astigmatism is corrected by the curve of the contact lens. Depending on the level of astigmatism in the eye, the contact lens will have a different degree of curve. Toric contact lenses even have a specific built-in mechanism that means that they do not move as much as normal lenses on the eye, thus ensuring that the lens is always in the correct position for maximum effect.
Compare toric contact lens ratings
There are two key powers when it comes to toric contact lenses, the first corrects the astigmatism and the second corrects any near or long sightedness. Prescriptions that suggest toric contact lenses will include a rating, which indicates the level of curvature, and correction that the individual wearer requires.
To obtain the full benefit of toric contact lenses, the allotted toric contact lens rating MUST be adhered to. Prescriptions for toric contact lenses must be checked on a regular basis, so be sure to review your prescription with a professional, regularly.
Colored toric contact lenses
Toric contact lenses can be fun as well as useful! Colored toric lenses are a great way of changing your look whilst still maintaining corrected vision.
RGP toric contact lenses are often recommended because they are generally better at correcting astigmatism. This is because they hold onto the eye more firmly and are less likely to move when your eye does. However, if you want colored toric contact lenses, you may be very limited in your RGP choice and have to stick to soft toric lenses.
Soft toric contact lenses will still correct your astigmatism, but you will also be able to select a wide range of colors and functionality. For example, frequency 55 toric contact lenses allow wearers to reuse the contact lenses for up to a month and biomedics 55 toric lenses can be disposed of on a daily basis.
Wearing toric contact lenses does little to reduce your contact lens options. You can still purchase daily disposable lenses and you can still choose from a wide range of colors.
Where to get toric contact lenses
More and more manufacturers are producing at least one type of toric contact lens. Ultraflex, pro-clear and biomedics are just some of the companies that produce a wide range of options including pro-clear tailor made contact lenses.
Traditionally, contact lens options for those with astigmatism were very limited; this is no longer the case. Speak to your health care professional about the options available to you. Before you discuss your options have a clear idea of what you are hoping to achieve, for example do you want colored toric contact lenses or would you prefer plain? Do you want extended wear toric contact lenses or would you prefer daily disposable lenses? These decisions are largely a matter of individual choice and most manufacturers produce a brand that meets your requirements.
Shop around and review available options to ensure that you get the best deal when purchasing your toric contact lenses. Toric contact lenses are prescribed with precision, so it is vital that you have regular check-ups with your health care professional to ensure that you are gaining the full benefit of your contact lenses.
