The CRYSTALLINE LENS of the eye is a transparent, biconvex structure in the eye that, along with the cornea, helps to refract light to be focused on the retina. The lens, by changing shape, functions to change the focal distance of the eye so that it can focus on objects at various distances, thus allowing a sharp real image of the object of interest to be formed on the retina. This adjustment of the lens is known as accommodation (see also Accommodation, below). Accommodation is similar to the focusing of a photographic camera via movement of its lenses. Cataracts are opacities of the lens. While some are small and do not require any treatment, others may be large enough to block light and obstruct vision. Cataracts usually develop as the aging lens becomes more and more opaque, but cataracts can also form congenitally or after injury to the lens. Cataract surgery involves the removal of the lens and insertion of an artificial intraocular lens.
Dr. Lori Landrio Optometrist 