Not the Same Old Lenses
There are more options now for astigmatic contact lens wearers than ever before. Bausch and Lomb’s Purevision Toric and Vistakon’s Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism, have been around for a couple years. These lenses are all made from silicone hydrogel materials, which are superior for their abilityto transmit O2 to the ocular surface-resulting in enhanced ocular health. Recently, Vistakon and Ciba have introduced newer generation toric siliconehydrogels: the Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism and the Ciba Air Optics for Astigmatism. The results so far are very promising.
Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism features the exclusive Accelerated Stabilization Design and Hydraclear technology, which purports to deliver increased comfort and vision through decreased lens rotation and increased lens moisture. In addition, these lenses block more than 96% of UVA rays and 99% of UVB rays. The lenses are available in many parameters for the low to high myopes (plano to -6.00 D). Vistakon offers more specific parameters for higher myopes (-6.50 D to -9.00 D), hyperopes, or those with a high astigmatic correction. These lenses are replaced after two weeks of daily wear, though they are FDA-approved to be worn for seven days straight.
Compared to Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism, Pure vision Torics can be worn for longer consecutive periods (one month), and O2 transmittance may approach the former lenses’ longevity. In addition, there is an excellent selection of lens parameters.
Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism is similar to the Oasys version, but it transmits O2 at lower levels. Air Optix for Astigmatism is a monthly replacement lens that, like Oasys, has been approved by the FDA for one week of extended wear. The O2 transmittance is excellent. However, it does not yet provide lenses for high myopes, hyperopes, or high astigmats.
The contact lens industry introduces new lenses frequently. Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism stands out for its ability to provide clarity of vision without sacrificing ocular health, comfort, or convenience. Manyastigmatic contact lens wearers and eye doctors alike already prefer these lenses. Please make an appointment to discuss your candidacy for one of these excellent new lenses and see if you qualify for a FREE trial.
