An intraocular lens (IOL) is an artificial lens that is inserted into the eye during cataract surgery to replace the removed natural lens. It takes over the refractive power of the body's own lens and thus enables significantly better vision after the procedure.
The natural lens of the eye focuses the incoming light so that a sharp image forms on the retina. When this lens is clouded, for example by a cataract, it must be removed surgically. The intraocular lens is implanted in its place and takes over the optical function.
Intraocular lenses are made of a transparent plastic material (e.g. acrylic or silicone), are a few millimeters in size, and remain permanently in the eye.
The procedure is carried out as part of a cataract operation. The clouded natural lens is broken up by ultrasound and aspirated (phacoemulsification). The folded IOL is then inserted into the eye through a small incision, where it unfolds and is fixed in the intended position. The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
If no intraocular lens is inserted, for example in very young children, the missing refractive power can be compensated by other means:
The use of intraocular lenses in children differs from that in adults in several respects:
The decision whether to implant an IOL in a child or to first fit a contact lens depends on the age, the eye anatomy, and the individual circumstances, and is discussed carefully with the parents.
After the IOL implantation, regular eye check-ups are important in order to:
In children, the operation is usually followed by amblyopia therapy (patch or drops), since the brain has to learn to see sharply with the operated eye.
The decision for or against an IOL implantation, especially in children, requires careful individual consideration. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages in detail with your ophthalmologist so that you can make an informed decision.