An intraocular lens is a fine, clear implant that replaces the misty natural lens to focus light accurately on the retina. It stays in the eye permanently and is not felt or seen by others.

For the technically minded: Modern intraocular lenses are foldable hydrophobic or hydrophilic acrylic designs that can be inserted through a small incision. Aspheric optics reduce positive spherical aberration and can improve contrast sensitivity, particularly in mesopic conditions.