Objective:This paper aimed to review the current literature on the surface modification of intraocular lenses (IOLs).Data Sources:All articles about surface modification of IOLs published up to 2015 were identified through a literature search on both PubMed and ScienceDirect.Study Selection:The articles on the surface modification of IOLs were included,but those on design modification and surface coating were excluded.Results:Technology of surface modification included plasma,ion beam,layer-by-layer self-assembly,ultraviolet radiation,and ozone.The main molecules introduced into IOLs surface were poly (ethylene glycol),polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane,2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine,TiO2,heparin,F-heparin,titanium,titanium nitride,vinyl pyrrolidone,and inhibitors of cytokines.The surface modification either resulted in a more hydrophobic lens,a more hydrophilic lens,or a lens with a hydrophilic anterior and hydrophobic posterior surface.Advances in research regarding surface modification of IOLs had led to a better biocompatibility in both in vitro and animal experiments.Conclusion:The surface modification is an efficient,convenient,economic and promising method to improve the biocompatibility ofIOLs.