Implantable Contact Lenses: Everything You Should Know

LASIK has become an extremely popular vision corrective surgery for those who want to drastically improve their vision. This is for good reason, too. However, there are other alternatives that are just as effective and can be a better option if you’re not eligible for LASIK. 

Let’s discuss what an implantable contact lens is, the different types, their benefits and disadvantages, the differences between ICL and LASIK, and the costs involved. 

What Are Permanent Contact Lenses?

An implantable contact lens, or ICL, is a contact lens alternative used for correcting vision. However, unlike traditional contact lenses, they are positioned so that they remain in the eye for a much longer time. Implantable contact lenses are surgically placed inside the eyes, between the iris and the natural lens, giving you permanent contacts. 

ICL is made from Collmar, which is a biocompatible material that’s a combination of collagen and polymer. Because of this, they don’t cause any side effects or discomfort. 

Types of Implantable Contact Lenses

ICL Soft Lens

A soft lens is made from a polymeric material that bends easily, making it soft. The design is similar to the collagen found in your cornea, so there is less of a risk of an adverse reaction. 

During a soft lens implantation procedure, your surgeon will cut a tiny incision in your cornea and place the ICL inside your eye, between your iris and lens. There are no stitches required. 

Intraocular Lens

This type of ICL surgery is designed specifically for patients who can’t have LASIK surgery due to their severe nearsightedness. For this type of implant, your surgeon will place the lens between the cornea and iris so that your eyes can focus more clearly. Surgeons will then use tiny stitches to close the incision so that the lens stays in place. 

The Procedure of Implanting Contact Lenses

An ICL surgery is a safe, effective, and fast procedure that permanently corrects your vision. This surgery involves placing a lens between a person’s iris and lens without damaging the corneal tissue. Your natural lens will stay intact. 

The procedure only takes around 15 minutes and has a quick healing time. Many patients go back to normal activities the very next day after their surgery. 

Benefits of Permanent Contact Lenses

There are a myriad of benefits that come with permanent contact lenses. 

• ICLs are a good choice for people who are not good candidates for LASIK or PRK
• ICLs can help correct nearsightedness and astigmatism, with advances being made to address other vision conditions
• ICLs can be used when people have irregular corneas, dry eyes, or vision prescriptions that exceed the acceptable range for LASIK or PRK
• ICLs are maintenance-free since they’re implanted in the eye
• There are no added expenses for contact lens cleaners, replacement lens costs, or storage containers
• The procedure is both minimally invasive and fast
• ICLs last a long time and allow people to see clearly for years
• Compared to LASIK or PRK, ICLs generally result in high-definition vision
• If you don’t like the results, the procedure is completely reversible

Potential Risks and Considerations

While the procedure is very safe, surgery always comes with some amount of risk. 

For ICL surgery, they include:

• Changes in Vision: Patients may have double vision, see halos, experience glare, or struggle to see clearly in low light. 
• Vision Loss: It’s possible that your vision could get worse following an ICL Surgery. Implanting lenses may not be successful or could damage your eyesight more. 
• Additional Surgery: If the first ICL surgery isn’t successful, there may be a need for another. If the lens moves out of place or is off-center, the surgeon will need to cut your eye again to replace or adjust the lens. 
• Results Aren’t Guaranteed: It’s not always the case that perfect 20/20 vision is achieved with the procedure. You may still be required to wear reading glasses after to achieve the vision you want. 
• Pressure: After your surgery, it may feel like there’s pressure in or behind your eyes. You can be prescribed medication to treat this symptom, but there’s always the possibility that too much pressure can damage your vision permanently. 
• Detached Retina: Eye surgery may cause retinal detachment. If that occurs, the tissue on the back of your eye that senses light is no longer connected to your eye. 
• Infection: If your eyes hurt after your procedure, it could be a sign of infection. Some amount of discomfort is common, but most patients have a fast recovery. If lingering pain, redness, swelling, or inflammation occurs, you should contact your doctor. 

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The average cost of this procedure can range from $1,200 to $5,000, depending on a variety of factors. Unfortunately,  ICL is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, so it’s most likely that it will not be included in your insurance.

At Specialty Eye Institute, we are proud to offer Alphaeon financing. With it, you can begin your procedure immediately with a flexible financing plan to help you pay. You will be able to make low monthly payments that fit into your budget. 

Recovery and Post-Procedure Care

Recovery from ICL surgery is fairly quick. Within the first day, 70% to 80% of patients have restored their vision and can even be cleared for driving. The vision continues to mature and sharpen gradually over time. Within three to four weeks, the results of the surgery should be fully achieved. 

Despite the quick recovery, you should still take it easy for the first 24 hours. Your doctor will give you instructions regarding taking prescribed eye drops and using an eye shield when you shower.

You should avoid rubbing your eyes or putting cream or eye makeup on them for the first two weeks. Exercising and swimming should also be avoided for the first two weeks after surgery. For the first week after the procedure, it’s recommended to wear UV-protection sunglasses when out in the sun. 

Comparing ICL with LASIK & Other Vision Correction Procedures

ICL surgery is similar to LASIK when it comes to the ultimate goal of enhancing your vision. However, they do have their differences. ICL surgery is generally a great option for most patients, particularly for those who are not eligible for LASIK. You can still have ICL surgery if you are too nearsighted for other procedures, or have dry eyes or thin corneas that make other procedures difficult. 

LASIK, if you are eligible, is one of the most affordable corrective vision procedures. Because ICL is custom-created to match your eye, they can be pricier than LASIK, though financing options are available. 

Patient Eligibility for Implantable Contact Lenses

You are eligible for ICL surgery if: 

• You are between the ages of 21 and 45
• You have nearsighted vision with mild to severe myopia
• You have not had a change in prescription of more than .5D in the past year
• You are looking for a procedure that doesn’t create dry eye syndrome
• You have enough endothelial cell density and adequate anterior chamber depth to perform the procedure safely

To you for certain if you’re eligible for ICL surgery and if it’s the best option for you, contact an experienced specialist to discuss. 

FAQs About Permanent Contact Lenses

How Long Do Permanent Contact Lenses Last?

ICL should last you for the rest of your life unless you decide to remove them. 

How Much Do Permanent Contact Lenses Cost?

The average cost of this procedure can range from $1,200 to $5,000, depending on a variety of factors. 

Does Insurance Cover ICL Surgery?

Unfortunately,  ICL is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, so it’s most likely that it will not be included in your insurance. However, Specialty Eye Institute has financing options available. 

What is the Age Limit for ICL Surgery? 

The age range for ICL surgery is 21-45 years old. 

Is LASIK or ICL Better?

Both LASIK and ICL have advantages and disadvantages. It all depends on which choice is the best for your specific situation. 

Can Permanent Contact Lenses Be Removed?

Yes. ICL surgery is completely reversible. 

Does ICL Surgery Give You 20/20 Vision?

While ICL surgery is designed to drastically improve your vision, there is no guarantee that you will be able to achieve 20/20 vision. 

Embrace a Clearer Future With Implantable Contact Lenses From Specialty Eye Institute

If you’re interested in ICL surgery or any other procedures, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Specialty Eye Institute. Our reliable team of experts is committed to providing an experience that exceeds expectations, whether you’re with us for a comprehensive eye exam or a life-changing procedure. 

At Specialty Eye Institute, we are dedicated to delivering the highest level of attention to your eye health. Our core values encompass:

• Patient-Centered Advocate
• Integrity
• Excellence
• Compassion

If you’re in need of excellent eye care, don’t hesitate to call us at (866) 435-8935 or schedule an appointment on our website.