Question about "intraocular lenses"

I've been diagnosed with a posterior subcapsular cataract in my left eye. My vision in my right eye (dominant) is fine (20/15 - as my doctor told me). I used to have 20/20 vision in my left eye, but it deteriorated after i had the cataract. My doctor told me that i can have it surgically removed if I want. "Anytime I'm ready", he said. I've been researching about cataract surgery and I have encountered something about "intraocular lens" implants being placed in the eye. Can anyone explain to me what it is? More importantly, what are the risks of having them in your eye? I've heard that they have a tendency to be "dislocated". As a young person (i'm only 18), I'm very active in sports, like basketball, swimming, and non-contact karate (that means we wear body protection during tournaments). I'm thinking what my life would be after i had the intraocular lens implanted in my left eye. Must i refrain from sports that can cause even the mildest trauma in my eye? It really bothers me a lot. I think i wouldnt be able to "move" after my surgery, fearing that something might hit my eye...

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

You will need to do your own research. ALL cataract surgery is accompanied by an IOL insertion.

You will likely need to give up some of the violent sports (like karate) but basketball with eye protection and swimming is okay.

JCH MD