Implantable contact lenses are thin, pliable lenses often used as an alternative to LASIK vision correction surgery for permanent vision improvement. The lenses are implanted in the eye during ICL eye surgery and work with the eye’s natural lens to improve vision. Our Top Doctors at Visionary Ophthalmology
Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) Procedure
ICL eye surgery is a relatively quick and pain free outpatient surgical procedure. Unlike LASIK surgery, no laser is required for ICL eye surgery and the procedure can be reversed by performing an additional surgery to remove the lens.
ICL Eye Surgery
The outpatient ICL eye surgery procedure is performed in less than 30 minutes. Before the procedure, the eye will be numbed with a topical or local anesthetic, and a mild sedative may be given if necessary. ICL eye surgery is similar to intraocular lens implant surgery, except there is no need for cataract removal. This allows the implantable contact lens to be inserted without removing the eye’s natural lens. Instead, during ICL eye surgery, the implantable contact lens in inserted through a small incision in the eye and placed into its position in front of the natural lens.
Two types of lenses are available for ICL eye surgery. A foldable lens, the Visian ICL™ is inserted through a small incision and unfolds into its place between the iris and the eye’s natural lens. This procedure requires an extremely small incision that is self-healing. The Verisyse™ lens, on the other hand, is inserted in front of the iris through a somewhat larger incision that must be closed with sutures which dissolve over time.
ICL Eye Surgery Recovery
Similar to intraocular lens surgery recovery, you will need to return to your ophthalmologist for a follow-up visit within 24 hours of your ICL eye surgery. You may be instructed to use eye drops and a protective shield after the placement of your implanted contact lens in order to protect your eye as it heals. Any minor pain associated with the ICL eye surgery can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications.
You should notice improved vision the day of your ICL eye surgery. Most patients experience the optimal effects of the implantable contact lens procedure in about one to seven days. The total recovery period for ICL eye surgery is relatively short. Your eye should be completely healed within one to two months.
As you age, you may need to update your ICL prescription. However, as more information on implantable contact lens procedures is compiled, it appears that most prescriptions remain constant. This minimizes the need to exchange the original implantable contact lens with an ICL of a different strength.
ICls
Implantable contact lenses (ICLs), also known as phakic IOLs, correct vision in much the same way that external contact lenses do, except ICLs are placed inside the eye where they permanently improve vision. ICLs are also similar to intraocular lenses which are used during cataract surgery to replace the eye’s natural lens. However, during ICL surgery, the natural lens is kept in the eye and works with the implanted lens to correct vision. Permanent contact lenses give those who are not candidates for laser vision correction an option for permanent vision correction.
Implantable Contact Lenses: ICLs
Implantable contact lenses are inserted through a small incision in the cornea and placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. These thin, pliable lenses can be an alternative to LASIK surgery and are used to correct conditions that laser surgery may be unable to correct, such as extreme myopia (nearsightedness). The ICL procedure is virtually pain free and has a 95 percent success rate.
Verisyse™
The Verisyse™ phakic intraocular lens is often an option for those with moderate to severe myopia who are notcandidates for LASIK. Unlike other ICLs, the Verisyse™ lens is placed in front of the iris, and the natural lens is left in the eye, allowing for uninterrupted focusing ability. Learn more about the Verisyse™ phakic intraocular lens.
Visian ICL™
The Visian ICL™ is made from Collamer®, a collagen co-polymer, specially designed for biocompatibility by STAAR® Surgical. The Visian ICL™ is foldable, allowing for insertion through a very small incision. It is placed behind the iris and works with the existing natural lens to correct vision. Learn more about Visian ICL™.
Types of ICLs
The main difference in implantable contact lenses is the type of material used to make each ICL. There are only two types of ICLs approved for use in the United States today: Verisyse™ made of a type of acrylic called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and Visian ICL™ made from STAAR® Surgical’s blend of collagen and copolymer called Collamer®. Learn more about implantable contact lens types.
The ICL Procedure
The outpatient procedure to place implantable contact lenses is performed in less than 30 minutes, recovery time is relatively short, and pain is minor. The lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens through a small incision in the cornea. Improved vision is often noticed the same day as surgery, and patients fully heal within a month. Learn more about the ICL eye surgery procedure.
Am I a Candidate?
Typically, the best candidates for implantable contact lenses are between the ages of 21 and 45, with moderate to severe myopia. ICLs are designed for those patients who are not good candidates for LASIK vision correction. Learn more about candidate requirements for implantable contact lenses.
Additional ICL Information — FAQs
We have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about implantable contact lenses. Learn the difference between ICLs and IOLs, the benefits of implantable lenses, and more. Learn more about implantable contact lenses with our ICL FAQs.
Benefits of Implantable Contact Lenses
Implantable contact lenses have many benefits over other types of vision correction. They can permanently improve the vision of those with moderate to severe nearsightedness by working with the eye’s natural lens. And unlike LASIK vision correction, the procedure is completely reversible. Learn more about the benefits of implantable contact lenses.
Risks of Implantable Contact Lenses
No surgical procedure is without risk, however, rarely do patients experience complications with implantable contact lenses. When complications do occur, they are typically minor. Learn more about ICL risks.
How Do I Choose an ICL Surgeon?
It is important to choose a qualified and experienced ICL surgeon for optimal results. You should choose a surgeon who has a solid reputation and is willing take the time to address your questions and concerns about implantable contact lenses. Learn more about how to choose an ICL surgeon.
Cost of Implantable Contact Lenses
The cost of implantable contact lenses depends greatly on the surgeon you choose and the area of the country in which your procedure is performed. In general, it costs several thousand dollars per eye for the surgery. However, many ophthalmologists offer financing plans to help you pay for the procedure. Learn more aboutimplantable contact lens cost.
