With the wide application of phacoemulsification cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation, many cataract patients have recovered effective vision. Postoperative artificial lens opacification is an important indicator for evaluating biocompatibility, as it affects the visual quality of patients. The manifestation and risk factors of opacification vary among different materials used for artificial lenses. However, better visual quality after surgery is not determined by a single factor. The material of the intraocular lens and the patient's reaction to the intraocular lens are all factors that affect the postoperative visual quality. With the continuous advancement of technology, an increasing number of new materials are being applied in the field of artificial lenses. Fully understanding the characteristics of intraocular lens materials, selecting suitable intraocular lens for patients and reducing complications caused by materials will bring good news to patients. The characteristics of different IOL materials and the risk factors of opacification after IOL implantation were discussed in this paper.