Corneal edema is a common complication after phacoemulsification and intraocular lens(IOL) implantation, which is caused by the injury of corneal endothelial cells. It may lead to vision decreasing, blurred vision, corneal decompensation or even blindness. Therefore, prevention and proper treatment of corneal edema are totally essential for the patients. According to the specific clinical conditions, treatments can be used including drugs, contact lens and surgery. We review the research advance on the mechanism, etiology, prevention and therapy of phacocmulsification and IOL implantotion in this article.