How many years can an intraocular lens last after cataract surgery?

Sep 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Shuai

Introduction

The intraocular lenses implanted during cataract surgery can generally last a lifetime. Provided no serious complications occur after surgery, the optical performance and stability of the artificial lens can be maintained over the long term, eliminating the need for replacement. After surgery, cataract patients should follow their doctor's instructions for regular check-ups, take care to protect their eyes, and avoid eye injuries. With proper care, the intraocular lens can help maintain good vision and support normal daily life over the long term.

Under normal circumstances, intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted during cataract surgery can last a lifetime. Provided no serious complications occur after surgery, the optical performance and stability of the artificial lens can be maintained for the long term, eliminating the need for replacement. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Currently, commonly used intraocular lenses in clinical practice are primarily made from inert materials such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), silicone gel, and acrylic. These materials have stable chemical properties, are resistant to aging and corrosion, and are not absorbed by ocular tissues after implantation. They do not degrade significantly over time, maintaining clear optical performance that meets daily visual needs.

For the vast majority of patients, the implanted intraocular lens can last a lifetime. Only in rare cases might intervention be necessary—such as significant IOL dislocation or displacement after surgery, lens opacification, or severe retinal disease affecting vision—in which case surgical adjustment or replacement may be required. However, the incidence of such complications is extremely low.

After cataract surgery, patients should follow their doctor's instructions for regular follow-up visits and take care to protect their eyes, avoiding ocular trauma. With proper care, the intraocular lens can help maintain good vision long-term and support normal daily life.

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How long does cataract surgery take?

In most cases, cataract surgery involves surgically removing the cloudy lens and implanting an artificial clear lens, allowing light to properly focus on the retina and restoring clear vision. The general reference cost for cataract surgery is 5,000–8,000 yuan per procedure. Noticeable improvement typically occurs within 2–3 weeks, although symptoms such as swelling or infection may occur.

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How much does eye lens implant surgery cost?

There are generally three types of intraocular lens implantation surgeries, with corresponding prices as follows: anterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, 15,000–30,000 yuan per procedure; posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, 20,000–35,000 yuan per procedure; and cataract phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation, 5,000–30,000 yuan per procedure.

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How much does trifocal lens replacement surgery cost?

Trifocal intraocular lens replacement surgery is generally categorized into the following types: conventional trifocal intraocular lens replacement, costing 20,000–40,000 yuan per procedure; femtosecond laser-assisted trifocal intraocular lens replacement, costing 30,000–50,000 yuan per procedure; and astigmatism-correcting trifocal intraocular lens replacement, costing 25,000–45,000 yuan per procedure. Prior to trifocal intraocular lens replacement surgery, patients should complete all necessary examinations as directed by their physician.

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Why Crystal Implant Surgery Is Not Recommended

In general, reasons for not recommending intraocular lens implantation surgery include poor corrective effects, issues with surgical adaptability and reversibility, risk of infection, risk of complications, and elevated intraocular pressure. Although intraocular lens implantation can improve a patient's vision to some extent, there are also limiting factors. Therefore, before deciding to undergo the surgery, patients should fully understand the associated risks and precautions.