One of the most subtle yet important intraoperative clues to zonular weakness is the presence of a crescent-shaped, abnormally bright red reflex at the pupillary margin. This often resembles a partial solar eclipse and our guest surgeon, therefore, calls this the Solar Eclipse sign. This asymmetric reflex reflects localized lens decentration or posterior capsular tilt due to compromised zonules, often preceding obvious phacodonesis. Recognizing this sign early is critical, as standard cataract surgery techniques may place undue stress on an already unstable capsular–zonular complex. In such cases, surgical strategy must be modified: hydrodissection is performed gently, nuclear manipulation is minimized, and forces are kept centrally. The use of a capsular tension ring becomes essential to redistribute circumferential forces, stabilize the capsular bag, and maintain centration throughout phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. Anticipating zonulopathy and deploying a capsular tension ring proactively can significantly reduce the risk of capsular rupture, vitreous loss, and late IOL decentration, ultimately improving both surgical safety and visual outcomes.
