What is Implantable Collamer Lens Procedure

What is Implantable Collamer Lens Procedure

Imagine you make up your mind to get LASIK done. You talk to your friends and family, and they support your decision. Then, you finally head to get a screening, and it turns out that you’re not eligible for LASIK! It will be unbelievably disappointing, right? Well, don’t worry! There’s another equally effective solution to be specs-free. It’s called the Implantable Collamer Lens, commonly known as ICL eye surgery.

What Is the ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Procedure?

ICL eye surgery is a vision correction procedure in which an artificial lens is permanently implanted in the eye. It is used to treat myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. As the name suggests, the ICL is made out of Collamer, which is a type of collagen. It is a biocompatible material that has been used in the treatment of cataracts for many years.

Unlike LASIK and PRK, ICL procedure doesn’t have a minimum requirement for corneal thickness. Thus, you are eligible for the procedure even if your cornea is too thin. ICL operation is also ideal for people with dry eyes. The Implantable Contact Lens supports the existing eye’s lens to refract the light on the retina and produce clear vision. It is a type of phakic intraocular lens which means that it can be implanted in the eye without the need to take out the natural lens.

Why Choose ICL Surgery Over Glasses and Contacts?

Choosing ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery over glasses and contacts is a personal decision that depends on various factors, medical considerations, individual preferences, and lifestyle. Here are some reasons why someone might opt for ICL eye surgery instead of relying on glasses or contacts:

 

  1. Permanent Correction: ICL procedure offers a more permanent vision correction solution compared to glasses and contacts. Once the ICL is implanted, it provides consistent vision correction.
  2. Visual Quality: ICLs can provide high-quality vision which means better visual acuity compared to glasses and contacts. 
  3. Active Lifestyle: For individuals with an active lifestyle or those involved in sports and outdoor activities, ICL surgery may be preferable as it does not bring discomfort during those activities.
  4. Peripheral Vision: ICLs provide a natural field of vision, as they are placed inside the eye. This can be an advantage over glasses, which can have frames that obstruct peripheral vision.
  5. No Maintenance: Unlike glasses and contacts, ICLs require minimal maintenance. There is no need to clean or replace it.
  6. No Dry Eyes: Some people experience dry eyes or discomfort with contact lenses. ICL eye surgery eliminates this side effect.

 

Read more about the advantages of ICL Lens.

It’s essential to note that while ICL procedure has its advantages, it also involves a surgical procedure and potential risks. It is crucial to consult with an eye specialist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for ICL surgery. 

ICL Procedure: Toric Lens for Astigmatism

There’s another form of the ICL procedure, which is used to treat cases of myopic astigmatism. It is a customized lens designed to take care of the spherical as well as the cylindrical power of the patient’s eye.  Hence, toric ICL can correct myopia and astigmatism at the same time.

Read more about How safe is ICL Surgery.

Astigmatism Correction Through Toric Lens:

  • Toric ICLs are specifically designed to correct astigmatism with a custom-tailored lens.
  • Precise placement aligns with the axis of astigmatism, offering stable, long-term correction.

Benefits:

  • High-quality vision.
  • Reduced dependence on glasses.
  • Natural field of vision without distortions.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Individual age must lie between 21 to 45.
  • Stable eyeglass prescription, particularly from last one year.
  • Moderate to high astigmatism in addition to nearsightedness or farsightedness.
  • Overall good eye health without conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.

Surgical Procedure:

  1. Thorough examination of prescription, astigmatism axis, and eye health.
  2. Tailoring the Toric ICL based on individual measurements and correction needs.
  3. Small corneal incision, insertion of Toric ICL, and precise positioning.
  4. Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Individuals considering Toric ICL eye surgery should consult with an experienced eye surgeon for a comprehensive discussion on eligibility, potential benefits, and risks based on their individual eye conditions.

Read more about  myopia vs hyperopia vs astigmatism in detail here.

ICL Procedure Eligibility Criteria

  • Age between 21 and 45 years
  • Nearsighted vision with myopia ranging between (-3D to -20D)
  • The prescription should not have changed by more than 0.5D in the past year
  • The power of glasses should have been stable for around one year
  • The endothelial cell density should be adequate
  • The candidate’s anterior chamber depth (ACD) needs to be 2.80 mm or greater

* Check your eligibility criteria for ICL operation here.

 

The ICL Procedure: Step-by-Step

Let us take you through the journey on how exactly the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure gives you an enhanced vision.

  • You will be given topical anesthetic drops to numb your eye and ensure you don’t feel any pain.
  • Your eyelids will be held open with a lid speculum.
  • The eye expert will make a small incision on your cornea
  • Finally, the Implantable Collamer Lens will be inserted into the eye above your natural crystalline lens via this incision.
  • Eye drops will be administered, and your eyes will be covered with a patch.
  • After the procedure is done (which just takes 15 to 20 minutes!), you’ll be taken to a recovery room, where you will be closely monitored.
  • You will be prescribed some eye drops and oral medications. Note that it’s advisable you bring someone along with you who can drive you home.
  • The next day, you will have a follow-up appointment. Your vision will keep improving gradually.
  • There will be a few more appointments over the next few months to track your progress.

Benefits of the ICL Procedure

Below are the major benefits of ICL Procedure:

  • Enhanced vision
  • Fast recovery time
  • No dry eyes
  • It’s permanent but can be removed
  • Excellent alternative for those who can’t get LASIK

ICL Surgery Recovery and Results

ICL eye surgery recovery is swift, with initial discomfort subsiding within days. Prescription eye drops aid healing, and patients can often resume normal activities, including driving, shortly after the procedure. Vision stabilization may take weeks to months. Results commonly include improved vision quality, reduced dependence on glasses, and enhanced night vision. Though halos and glare may occur, ICL offers a long-term solution with potential for adjustments if needed. Adhering to post-op instructions and regular follow-ups are vital for optimal outcomes.

So, what are you waiting for? An enhanced vision is just a few minutes away. If you are planning to get an Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery, you should always opt for a world-class institute that’s backed by experience.

Planet LASIK is one of India’s world-class eye care centers where highly-experienced surgeons have been conducting the ICL procedure with remarkable results. Book a consultation to discover what’s the best way for you to become specs-free and embrace a limitless life. The best part is we are the only care hospital in entire North-India to have complete refractive surgeries, from SILK, SMILE, LASIK, & PRK.

FAQs

Does the ICL procedure eliminate the need for glasses or contacts entirely?

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery significantly reduces dependence on glasses or contacts for most daily activities, offering improved vision. While it may not eliminate the need entirely, many patients experience enhanced visual freedom post-procedure.

How do I find a qualified eye surgeon for the ICL procedure?

To find a qualified eye surgeon for the ICL procedure, research local ophthalmologists with expertise in refractive surgery. You will be glad to know that Planet Lasik has India’s best team of eye surgeons, handpicked from the nation’s top medical institutions.

Is the ICL procedure safe?

Yes, ICL procedure is usually considered safe and possesses less complications. However, outcomes may vary as per the eye condition; therefore, it is essential to consult an eye surgeon for the best advice.