A lens implant is sometimes referred to as an intraocular lens (IOL) and is placed in the eye at the time of cataract removal. In years past, before implants were developed, patients were left without an IOL and had to wear thick magnifying glasses all the time. Now, with implants that are placed behind the pupil, cataract patients can have improved vision without the need for these unsightly spectacles. These implants are often made of flexible acrylic that allows the lens to be folded and inserted through a small incision, often without the need for sutures.