ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

BEYOND the limits of lasers...

LASIK has brought excellent vision to millions of people since the creation of the excimer laser and FDA approval in late 90’s. Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis, otherwise known as LASIK, is the most advanced refractive surgery procedure for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. These vision problems are caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, the outer surface of the eye. In laser vision correction, the excimer laser is used to re-sculpt the cornea to a more normal shape.

Introducing a solution for patients with high amounts of nearsightedness. The ICL is a revolutionary refractive lens that can correct vision up to –15 diopters of nearsightedness. This procedure may provide excellent vision for patients that have been told lasik is not an option.  This lens is a posterior chamber implant that is situated behind the iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens. It is also known as a Phakic IOL. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, which means that a patient has surgery and leaves the same day. 

You might be a good candidate for ICL if:

• You have extreme to moderate nearsightedness
• You have thin corneas and are not a LASIK candidate
• You have a history of dry eye
• You have large pupils

The Surgery

Prior to the surgery a surgeon will make two microscopic holes in the iris. Your eye will be numbed with a light, topical or local anesthetic. Once the eye is numbed the surgeon will make 2 side port incisions and one main temporal incision that is critical to the insertion process. Next the surgeon will insert the ICL through the main temporal incision and place the lens behind the iris and in front of the crystalline lens. This insertion procedure is typically performed one eye at a time. There is very little discomfort and normally no pain associated with the procedure. Some drops or perhaps oral medication may be prescribed and a visit is usually scheduled the day after surgery. Patients will be advised to arrange for someone to drive them to and from surgery.

Are you a Candidate?

Individuals who suffer from extreme nearsightedness will have a solution for their poor vision. The ICL provides an opportunity to those individuals who are not candidates for lasik eye surgery. Some people cannot have lasik for reasons ranging from high prescriptions to thin corneas. The ICL will now give these patients the opportunity to experience the same lifestyle change that lasik has brought to millions.