Abstract: 【Abstract】Intraocular lens(IOL) opacification after cataract surgery is one of the recent research hotspots. The rate  of hydrophilic IOL opacification is variable in the literatures. The average age of onset in domestic is younger  than in overseas. The rate of  PMMA, silicone or hydrophobic acrylic IOL opacification is far lower than hydrophilic IOL. The rate of opacification is higher in women than in men. Diabetes and glaucoma are thought to be the most important diseases associated with IOL opacification. Contrast sensitivity  is an important test for early diagnosis of IOL opacification. IOL opacification is easily misdiagnosed with other diseases, especially posterior capsular opacification. IOL replacement is the main treatment of IOL opacification. The timing of surgery depends on patient's situation including vision and  age. Postoperative results are obvious and severe  complications are rare. The second  IOL should not be a hydrophilic acrylic lens. (Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2013, 37: 112-116)