Diametrically opposed to hemholtz i the Schachar theory of accomodation.

Schachar suggest
that during accomodation, ciliary muscle contraction leads to a selective increase in equtorial zonural
tension-rather than to the uniform decrease (anterior, equatorial, and posterior) proposed by the
Helmholtz theory - with a subsequent pulling of the equatorial lense outward the sclera. Schachar
postulates that accomodation accurs through the direct effect of zonular tension ( as opposed to the
passive effect proposed by helmholtz), causing an increase in lens curvature. In this theory, the loss of
accomodation with age is result of the continued gowth of the lens, with increasing lens diameter, and
decrease in the lens-ciliary body distance, which result in a loss of zonular tension. Anything that
increases resting zonular tension (eg, scleral expansion) should restore accomodation.

Schachar proposes that the mechanism for functional lens shape change is equatorial stretching
by zonules; this decrease the peripheral lens volume and increases the central volume, thus producing
the central steepening of the anterior central lens capsule. During accomodation and ciliary muscle
contraction, tension the equatorial zonular fiber increase, whereas tension on the anterior and
posterior zonules is reduced. These actions allow the lens to maintain a stable potition at all times,
even as it undergous changes in shape. Schachar suggest that the anterior and posterior zonules serve
as passive support structures for lens, whereas the equatorial zonules ate the active components is
determining the optical power of the lens.

Evidence from recent studies on both human and nonhuman primates disputes Schachar’s
theories on accomodation and presbyopia. Investigations in human tisues and with scanning electron
microscopy reveal no zonular insertions ( equatorial or otherwise) at the iris root or anterior ciliary
muscle. Various imaging techniques consistenly indicate that the diameter of the crystalline lens
decrease with accomodation. Invitro laser scanning imaging shows that crystaline lens does not
change focal lenght when increasing and decreasing radial stretching forces are applied. This runs
contrary to schachar’s proposal that the lens remains pliable with age and that presbyopia is due solely
to lens growth and crowding that prevents optimum ciliary muscle action