An implantable collamer lens (ICL) is an artificial lens that’s permanently implanted in the eye. The lens is used to treat:
– myopia (nearsightedness)
– hyperopia (farsightedness)
– astigmatism
Implanting an ICL requires surgery. A surgeon places the lens between the eye’s natural lens and colored iris. The lens works with the eye’s existing lens to bend (refract) light on the retina, which produces clearer vision.
The ICL is made of plastic and a collagen called collamer. It’s a type of phakic introcular lens. “Phakic” refers to how the lens is placed in the eye without taking out the natural lens.
Though ICL surgery isn’t necessary to correct vision problems, it can eliminate or reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.
It’s also a possible alternative for people who can’t get laser eye surgery.
But like most procedures, ICL surgery isn’t for everyone. When considering the procedure, talk to our doctor to determine if it’s right for you.
Benefits of having an implantable collamer lens
In addition to improved vision, there are numerous benefits of an ICL:
– It can fix severe nearsightedness that can’t be corrected with other surgeries.
– The lens is less likely to cause dry eyes which is ideal if your eyes are chronically dry
– It’s meant to be permanent but can be removed
– Recovery is usually quick because tissue isn’t removed
– People who can’t get laser eye surgery might be good candidates for ICL