Purpose of review: In the past years, several new options have been developed for the surgical management of aniridia in the course of cataract surgery.
Recent findings: The lens capsule may be altered - thinned - in aniridia, requiring particular attention in order to avoid complications with possible consequences for the surgical plan. Iris prosthetic devices for complete or partial restoration of an iris diaphragm have been developed and their use described. There are options for intracapsular placement as well as for fixation without using a capsular bag and options for improved cosmetic appearance have been created. Corneal tattooing is still an option for selected cases and has been refined technically. Complications attributable with the iris prostheses are relatively infrequent and manageable.
Summary: Cataract surgery offers an opportunity to manage associated partial or (sub)total aniridia of all origins with good to excellent functional and esthetic results with a relatively low and manageable complication potential.