An intraocular lens implant, or IOL, is an artificial lens made of plastic, silicone, acrylic or other material that is implanted inside the eye during cataract surgery. The IOL is implanted within the capsule, which provides permanent support for the lens. This is the most natural and preferred way of restoring vision.
Because the IOL lies safely inside the eye, it is never handled or adjusted as one would for a contact lens. Most patients are good candidates for the implant. Most patients have the device implanted during their surgery. Those who have had cataract surgery without the IOL implant, and who later discover they cannot tolerate contact lenses or cataract glasses, have to be evaluated very carefully before a second operation for a lens implant is recommended.
