Step 8: Removal of the vitreous humor reveals the lens, ciliary body and suspensory ligaments. In the normal condition the lens is transparent except, when as a condition of aging, the lens turns cloudy. The cloudy condition, called cataract, prevents or reduces the amount of light reaching the retina. Cataract can be treated by removing the lens and replacing it with a stiff artificial one. The normal lens is convex shaped and somewhat elastic. It is held in place by the suspensory ligaments that in turn join with the smooth muscle containing ciliary body. When the smooth muscle fibers contract the resulting force flattens the lens and the degree of bending of the light rays is reduced, thus the ciliary body is responsible for moving and shaping the lens for focusing. Relaxation of the smooth muscle results in a thickening of the lens and a greater bending of the rays of light. Take the notes you need to record what you have observed so far.
Step 9: Remove the lens by pulling it free from its attachments. Note the shape of the lens, its stiffness and opaqueness. Suspensory ligaments may also be visible along the edge of the lens. Take the notes you need to record what you have observed so far.