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The refractive power of the human eye depends on three factors: the power of the cornea, the power of the lens, and the length of the eye. Following cataract surgery, only the power of the cornea and the length of the eye are relevant. If both of these variables are known, it is possible to calculate what lens power will give the best refraction. Biometry is the process of measuring the power of the cornea (keratometry) and the length of the eye, and using this data to determine the ideal intraocular lens power. If this calculation is not performed, or if it is inaccurate, then patients may be left with a significant refractive error.