The current posterior chamber lenses available for use after intracapsular and extracapsular cataract extraction, including the iris-centred and supported lenses, are reviewed. The relative advantages of rigid and flexible loop posterior chamber lenses used after extracapsular extraction are compared and it is concluded that there is little difference in the immediate visual results. The flexible posterior chamber lens is more difficult to insert in a collapsed anterior chamber and small pupil; conversely, capsular-fixed posterior chamber lenses face the problem of anterior capsular fibrosis and optic decentration if inaccurately placed.