Also Being Studied

. Development of IOL injection devices, combined with new ultrasonic probes, for use in incisions as small as one millimeter

. Refinements in IOL power calculation

. Prevention of infection and inflammation by implanting a drug-delivery device in the eye

. A two-stage cataract procedure, consisting of standard cataract surgery followed by refractive surgery using a special laser to precisely adjust the shape of the cornea

. Presbyopic corneal inlays, for improved near vision while retaining distance vision Ophthalmic researchers and optical scientists envision exciting possibilities for safe, noninvasive ways to prevent and correct vision damage in people of all ages. Some of the developments described above are many years away from practical application. Others are just becoming available for use by experienced and highly skilled eye surgeons.

One thing is certain: Cataract surgery and lens replacement have made huge strides in just the past few years. The procedure is safer and faster, and the results more satisfying, than anyone could have imagined in the days when, after cataract surgery, patients had to wear thick, heavy eyeglasses to have any vision at all. If you have cataract surgery today, and your surgeon has kept abreast of improved techniques and materials, you can thank the pioneering work of scientists and eye specialists for restored clarity of vision, independence, and quality of life that you will appreciate as never before.