Development of the Intraocular Lens Implants

Intraocular lens implants (IOLs) have been used since 1949. Physicians at Wills Eye were the first in the United States to perform the implant procedure in 1952, and millions of these procedures have been performed since then.

Present-day IOLs have undergone many improvements and refinements over the years, and results have generally been excellent.

Research into new types of IOLs is ongoing. The latest versions include a soft, foldable lens that can fit through an even smaller incision, and the bifocal intraocular lens.