Early opacification of SI-40NB silicone intraocular lenses

We report 4 cases of silicone intraocular lens (IOL) opacification (SI-40NB, Allergan Inc.) in patients who had phacoemulsification between April and June 2003. The opacification was observed on the first postoperative day in all cases. The appearance of the silicone IOLs ranged from milky gray to a yellow hue and affected the entire optical component homogeneously. The patients did not complain about their vision, and visual acuity was only slightly affected; 3 of the 4 patients had a best corrected visual acuity of 20/30, and no anterior chamber reaction was observed. Contrast sensitivity was reduced in all cases. Careful scrutiny of medical histories failed to reveal factors that might have predisposed the patients to IOL opacification.