Anatomy of the Eye

Cornea
The cornea is the clear outer layer of the eye. It is the part of the eye that is sometimes transplanted. If the cornea is not perfectly round it causes the condition called astigmatism. The laser vision correction procedure is performed on this part of the eye.

Iris
The iris is the colored part of the eye that contracts and expands to control the amount of light that enters the eye.

Lens
The lens is the part of the eye that does the focusing. When the lens is clouded it is called a cataract.

Macula
The macula is the most sensitive area of the retina. It accounts for our central vision with which we see fine detail. Macular degeneration is an impairment of the macula. An Amsler Grid is used to evaluate whether or not distortion is present in sight. Distortion is a symptom of macular degeneration

Optic nerve
The optic nerve is the nerve that carries the image information to the brain. Optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve. Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve.

Pupil
The pupil is the opening through which light passes to reach the back of the eye.

Retina
The retina is the part of the eye that sends the image we see to the brain. A retinal detachment requires surgery.

Sclera
The sclera is the white part of the eye.

Vitreous
The vitreous is a clear gelatinous mass that fills the inside of the eye. Debris in the vitreous is why we have floaters.