Can Light Adjustable Lenses Correct Astigmatism?

Posted by: Dakota Eye Institute in Blog-post on May 14, 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Astigmatism Correction After Cataract Surgery

If you have astigmatism and are preparing for cataract surgery, you might be wondering if you’ll still need glasses afterward. Thanks to the revolutionary Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) by RxSight, many patients can now achieve clearer, more customized vision even with astigmatism.

At Dakota Eye Institute, we specialize in advanced lens technology and are proud to offer Light Adjustable Lenses in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Let’s dive into whether LAL lenses can correct astigmatism, how they compare to other options, and if they’re the right solution for you.

What Is a Light Adjustable Lens?

A Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is an artificial intraocular lens implanted during cataract surgery that can be customized after the procedure using UV light. The LAL, developed by RxSight, allows your cataract surgeon to precisely adjust your vision through a series of painless light treatments offering a level of customization unmatched by other cataract IOL lenses.

Can the Light Adjustable Lens Correct Astigmatism?

Yes. One of the major advantages of the Light Adjustable Lens is its ability to correct mild to moderate astigmatism after surgery. This is achieved during the light treatment phase, which allows your surgeon to reshape how light enters the eye, minimizing or eliminating the effects of astigmatism.

Benefits for Astigmatism:

• Customized correction after healing
• No need for a separate toric lens
• Improved visual clarity without glasses
• High success rate using light adjustable lenses

If you’re looking for the best lens for cataract surgery and also have astigmatism, the LAL lens could be a strong option, especially under the care of a skilled cataract surgeon in Bismarck.

How Does It Work?

1. Cataract surgery is performed and the Light Adjustable Lens is implanted.
2. After the eye heals (usually 2–3 weeks), your vision is tested.
3. Using a special UV light device, your doctor reshapes the lens to fine-tune vision and correct residual astigmatism.
4. Once you’re satisfied, the prescription is “locked in” with a final light treatment.

Pros and Cons of Light Adjustable Lenses

Pros

• Corrects astigmatism post-op
• Fully customizable vision
• Reduces dependence on glasses
• Great option for patients with prior LASIK or PRK
• Fewer night vision issues than multifocal lenses

Potential Cons

• Not a multifocal lens (does not offer near + far in one lens)
• Requires follow-up light treatments
• Must wear UV-protection glasses until treatment is complete
• Slightly higher light adjustable lens cost compared to traditional options

How Does It Compare to Other Cataract IOLs?

What Do Patients Say?

Many light adjustable lens patient reviews highlight improved visual sharpness and freedom from glasses, especially when paired with astigmatism correction. At Dakota Eye Institute, our patients have reported outstanding results with the RxSight Light Adjustable Lens.

Light Adjustable Lens Cost

While insurance often covers standard cataract surgery, LAL lenses are considered a premium upgrade and may involve additional out-of-pocket expenses. We’ll help you explore:

• Light adjustable lens cost
• Adjustable lens cost financing options
• HSA/FSA use

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate for light adjustable lenses if you:

• Have cataracts and astigmatism
• Want the most precise vision possible
• Have had previous corrective eye surgery (like LASIK or PRK)
• Are committed to follow-up visits for fine-tuning vision after cataract surgery

Why Choose Dakota Eye Institute?

Dakota Eye Institute is proud to be one of the few clinics in North Dakota offering the RxSight Light Adjustable Lens. Our experienced cataract surgeons in Bismarck deliver personalized, advanced care to help you get the best visual outcome possible.

We serve patients from Bismarck, Minot, Dickinson, Williston, Jamestown, and beyond.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to learn whether the light adjustable lens can correct your astigmatism and provide sharper vision after cataract surgery, the team at Dakota Eye Institute is here to help.