Clear-Cornea Cataract Surgery: Implanting the New Lens

Once your old lens has been removed, your doctor slips the new lens (IOL) in through the incision. The IOL is then positioned in the capsule that held your old lens. With the new lens in place, your doctor is ready to close the incision. In most cases, the incision is self-sealing (no-stitch). That means it will stay closed on its own without stitches. But sometimes, a stitch may be needed. The IOL does much the same thing as your old lens did before it became cloudy. It focuses light, letting you see sharp images and vivid colors. The IOL normally lasts a lifetime.

The IOL unfolds as it is inserted into the eye's natural capsule. Flexible tabs hold the IOL in place.