What are Implantable Collamer Lenses?

ICL is frequently referred to as an implantable contact lens due to its resemblance to the procedure's outcome, but its actual acronym, ICL, stands for Implantable Collamer Lens. Collamer denotes the unique material comprising the lens, a blend of collagen and polymer.

Implantable contact lenses are a vision correction solution that involves surgically inserting lenses into the eye, typically in front of the natural lens. These lenses function similarly to traditional contact lenses by altering the way light enters the eye to improve vision. Unlike traditional contacts, implantable contact lenses are designed to remain in place long-term, offering a permanent or semi-permanent vision correction option for individuals with various vision impairments.

The ICL Procedure

The ICL procedure is swift and painless, usually requiring under 30 minutes per eye. It is conducted in a day hospital, with the patient under deep sedation. A small corneal incision is made, and the ICL is placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. Immediate vision improvement is common post-procedure, with minimal discomfort for most patients.

How Does ICL Differ To LASIK?

ICL differs from surgeries like LASIK in terms of the procedure and outcomes, which may lead some patients to choose ICL over LASIK.

Firstly, the ICL procedure does not involve reshaping the cornea, unlike LASIK which relies on corneal reshaping using a laser. Instead, ICL involves surgically implanting a lens in front of the natural lens of the eye. This means that ICL is reversible and does not alter the cornea.

ICL may be preferred by patients with thin or irregular corneas, as it avoids the potential risks associated with corneal reshaping procedures like LASIK. Additionally, ICL can correct a wider range of vision issues, including higher degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness), as well as astigmatism.

Candidates for ICL

ICL’s are a fitting option for individuals seeking a long-term vision corrective solution who may not qualify for LASIK or PRK. To be deemed eligible for ICL, candidates must be 21 years or older, exhibit steady vision for at least one year, and have no past diagnosis of eye issues such as glaucoma or cataracts. Candidates should also have a prescription that falls within the range of ICL correction, which could include severe myopia (short-sightedness) or moderate to severe hyperopia (far-sightedness) and astigmatism up to 5D. ICL’s are not limited to the traditional prescription range and cater to considerable astigmatism. Patients who may have been turned down for LASIK or PRK due to cornea irregularities or thinness can benefit from ICL as it is a safe, viable alternative vision correction procedure suitable for many requirements.

Contact Us for More Information on Our ICL Procedures

If you are considering ICL or any other vision correction procedures, do not hesitate to reach out to our team of experts! You can call us on (07) 3239 5005 or send an email to hello@focusvision.com.au. We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your vision correction options.