A method and system for simulating/emulating vision using intraocular lenses or devices prior to surgery preferably using multifocal and monofocal intraocular lenses. The invention allows the patient, prior to surgery, to compare the differences in the perception of an image as seen with the intraocular lens and with normal vision, determining which type of lens the patient prefers, and in turn allows the ophthalmologist to measure which provides the better visual performance. It comprises a system containing the intraocular lens, called an artificial eye, a lens for transporting the image from the intraocular lens and eliminating the blur introduced by the artificial eye, and at least one telescope or optometer which transports the intermediate image from the intraocular lens onto the patients pupil. In this manner, the patient is shown how he/she would see after surgery with each type of lens proposed by the ophthalmologist.