A Look at Intraocular Lenses

Last updated 3 months ago

Many individuals with corneas and other eye conditions have surgery to remove the eye’s natural lens. In order for the eyes to focus and work properly after surgery, ophthalmologists implant an innovative artificial lens. Learn more about intraocular lenses (IOLs) in this eye care overview:

Why Are Lenses Necessary?

When the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, light can no longer remain sharply focused. When the lens is removed, light cannot be focused at all. An artificial lens mimics the behavior of a natural lens, without the cataracts.

How Does An Intraocular Lens Work?

IOLs are permanent replacements for the eye’s natural lens. Like contacts and eyeglass prescriptions, IOLs come in a range of various focusing powers. Your eye doctor measures the power needed in your lens implant, as well as eye length and cornea curvature. Unlike the hard plastic IOLs of the past, modern artificial lenses are made of silicone or other acrylic materials. Recent technology also allows for multifocal IOLs that allow patients to see more clearly at varying distances than monofocal lenses.

What Is The Intraocular Lens Implantation?

After removing the natural lens during cataract surgery, ophthalmologists create a small incision in the eye around 3 millimeters long. The IOL is then folded and inserted through the incision to be placed at the center of the pupil. While it is usually placed behind the iris where the natural lens was originally located, some patients may require the IOL to be placed in front of the iris. Intraocular lens implantation is the most frequently performed eye surgery, with very high success rates and percent results. After a few weeks of recovery, patients benefit from vastly improved vision.

Contact the Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago to learn more about cataract surgery and intraocular lenses. From LASIK eye surgery to dry eye treatments, we are proud to offer the latest advances in eye procedures. Call us at (847) 388-0309 and visit us online to learn more about our practice.