Everything You Need to Know About ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery

The History of the Implantable Collamer Lens

The first recorded uses of implantable lenses date back to World War II, where British air pilots would get plastic bits from airplane canopy stuck in their eyes. Doctors noticed that the body didn’t treat it as a foreign object, and eventually learned that you could place pieces of plastic into the eye to fix vision problems.Of course, today, it’s much more complicated – and safe. The Visian ICL is one of the best new lens implants you can get, and can help correct vision issues.

What is ICL Surgery?

If you’re nearsighted or have myopia, you can benefit by having a permanent lens implanted surgically. The lens is implanted inside the eye, and corrects vision by adjusting how light comes in through the eye. It’s placed behind the iris, where it works naturally with your body to provide clearer vision in both low light and daylight.

Can Anyone Get ICL Surgery?

Typically, the procedure is used with patients who are between 21 and their mid 50s. If you’re older than 50, you may consider another vision correction procedure, but it will be left to the discretion of the doctor. The Visian ICL and Toric ICL are usually used with patients who have large degrees of nearsightedness.

Some patients opt to use LASIK instead, but an ICL is ideal for patients who have thin corneas and are not eligible for LASIK surgery.

Is an ICL Surgery Risky?

No surgery is without risk. Your doctor can review the risks and complications with ICL implant surgeries with you, and you and your doctor can decide if a Visian ICL or Toric ICL is right for your vision correction needs. The risks generally associated with ICLs are the same with any surgery, like infection, but can also cause retinal detachment, problems with intraocular pressure, cataracts, loss of corneal endothelial cells, and inflammation of the eye.

What are the side effects of ICL Surgery?

After ICL Surgery, most patients do not experience side effects. There may be some temporary blurry vision or light sensitivity, but that is expected and will subside with time. Your Specialty Eye Institute doctor will review the healing process with you when you come in for a consult, and after the surgery is completed.

Does insurance pay for ICL Surgery?

Depending on your insurance plan, an ICL implant surgery may be considered an elective surgery – but they may be able to reduce the cost for you. We can help you check your costs with your insurance, and may be able to help you finance the cost of the surgery. Talk to our team during your consult about financing options and costs.

Can it correct astigmatism?

While classic ICLs cannot correct astigmatism, the Visian Toric ICL is designed to help those with astigmatism. The process of surgery may reduce it.

What Will Happen During ICL Surgery?

How Long Does an ICL Surgery Take?

The actual surgery only takes about half an hour or less, but the patient will need to stay for a few hours for pre-op and post-op recovery. You will not be able to drive after the procedure, so transportation will need to be arranged beforehand.

Can I Get ICLs in Both Eyes During the Same Procedure?

You can get implants at the same time – your doctor will review your options with you during your consult. If you need to space out the procedures, most patients will schedule two appointments, one each a few weeks away.

What Can I Expect AFTER ICL Surgery?

Post-op care changes from patient to patient, but it’s generally the same process for most. Talk with your doctor about your specific needs after an ICL surgery.