This invention relates generally to opthalmic molds and methods useful for casting opthalmic moldings. In one aspect, the invention relates to a mold for casting an opthalmic molding formed from a first mold half detachably affixed to a second mold half, whereby the mold has a top and a bottom; and a cavity formed by the first and second mold halves, wherein the cavity receives a lens forming material through an opening at the bottom of the mold and vents gas and excess lens forming material from an opening at the top of the mold. In another aspect, this invention relates to methods for casting opthalmic moldings, particularly intraocular lenses.