What is an IOL?

During cataract surgery the natural eye lens, damaged by the cataract is removed. Eye surgeons replace the natural eye lens with an intraocular lens, or IOL.

IOLs are 5 - 6 mm lenses, similar to a contact lens. Inserted into the pouch that held the natural eye lens, intraocular lenses direct light correctly into the eye. IOLs are usually made of silicone or plastic.

Intraocular lenses can be multifocal or monofocal depending on the vision needs of the patient.

Other FAQs

• What happens after cataract eye surgery?
• Can problems develop after cataract surgery?
• What happens during cataract eye surgery?
• How is a cataract diagnosed?
• What are the symptoms of a cataract?
• How much does cataract surgery cost?
• What are possible side effects of cataract surgery?
• What can I do to protect my vision?
• What exactly is a cataract?
• Are cataracts found only in older people?
• Is cataract surgery serious?
• When will I be able to resume normal activities?
• How often do I need to have my eyes checked after eye surgery?
• Will I need to have cataract surgery again?
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• Is cataract surgery covered by insurance?
• What is a Multifocal IOL?
• What is a Monofocal IOL?
• Monofocal vs. Multifocal
• NHS or private cataract extraction?
• What is a congenital cataract?
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• How will diabetes affect my cataract extraction surgery?
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• How quickly do cataracts develop?
• Does computer use cause cataracts?
• Can cataracts be removed with laser?
• Can a cataract return?
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• Do congenital cataracts in children need removing?

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