Astigmatism Correction with Toric Soft Contact Lenses

The statement that soft contact lenses cannot correct astigmatism is outdated. Modern toric soft contact lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism by incorporating different powers in different meridians and stabilizing mechanisms (prism ballast, thin zones, or lens geometry) to maintain orientation on the eye.

Key Points

• Available in daily, biweekly, monthly, and extended-wear modalities.
• Correct up to ~–4.00 D cylinder (higher with custom designs).
• Provide excellent comfort and visual acuity for most patients.
• Fitting requires precise measurement of cylinder axis and power; rotation assessment is critical.

Alternatives

If toric soft lenses are unsuitable: rigid gas permeable (RGP), hybrid, scleral lenses, or refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE, toric IOL).