Cataract surgery, a transformative procedure to restore vision, has seen remarkable advancements in intraocular lens (IOL) technologies. This special issue presents a collection of research that explores the performance, design, and evaluation of IOLs. From established designs and the impact of key optical parameters to innovative approaches and preoperative simulations, these contributions offer a comprehensive view of current trends and future directions in IOL development. The special issue also honors the legacy of Prof. Jim Schwiegerling whose contributions to visual optics in general, and IOLs in particular, have had a tremendous impact in the field, both in the academic, clinical and industrial communities.