An intraocular lens (IOL) replaces the existing crystalline lens of the eye. It’s most commonly used in cataract surgery, but in recent years is also used in a refractive lens exchange procedure.

This flexible lens is made of plastic, with plastic side struts to hold it in place. It is inserted by an ophthalmic surgeon using a miniscule incision via tube, then unfurls within the capsule of the lens.

These intraocular lenses have improved significantly over the past few years. There are now a wide range of lenses for an opthalmologist to choose from, allowing for correction of pre-existing refractive errors such as long sightedness, and shortsightedness and astigmatism.

Multifocal and accommodating lenses allow for both near vision and distance vision at the same time. Toric IOLs will correct astigmatism.

Refractive correction

If an IOL is used solely to correct a refractive error, there are several types of lenses that a surgeon would consider using. Phakic IOLs are used when the natural crystalline lens of the eye isn’t removed, while aphakic IOLs completely replace the natural lens of the eye.

Benefits of IOLs

IOLs have allowed people who aren’t suited for laser vision correction (particularly those over the age of 50) to reduce their dependancy on (or even completely eliminated the need for) glasses. Whether performed on a cataract or refractive lens exchange patient, once the human lens has been removed a cataract can no longer develop.