Ocular Anatomy

Understanding how the eye works can help you better recognize changes in your vision and why regular eye exams are so important.

Below are the main parts of the eye, explained simply:

Cornea

The clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. It helps focus light as it enters the eye, much like the lens of a camera.

Pupil & Iris

Pupil: The black opening in the center of the eye that lets light in.

Iris: The colored part of your eye that controls the size of the pupil (like a camera shutter).

Lens

A clear structure behind the pupil that bends (refracts) light to focus images on the retina. The lens changes shape to help you see both near and far objects.

Retina

A thin layer of light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. It works like film in a camera, capturing images and sending them to the brain.

Optic Nerve

The “cable” that connects the eye to the brain. It carries visual information so your brain can interpret what you see.

Vitreous Body

A clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye, helping it keep its round shape.

Sclera & Choroid

Sclera: The tough, white outer layer of the eye that provides structure and protection.

Choroid: A layer under the retina rich in blood vessels, supplying oxygen and nutrients to the eye.

👁️ In short: The cornea and lens focus light, the retina captures it, and the optic nerve delivers the image to your brain.