Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
Definition
An implantable collamer lens (ICL) is a small, clear lens implant that is placed inside the eye during a brief surgical procedure. It works like a regular contact lens to improve vision without glasses, but instead of sitting on the surface of your eye, it is permanently placed behind the colored part of your eye (the iris) and in front of your natural lens.
Doctors use ICLs to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia) and, in some cases, astigmatism. It is an option for people who want to improve their vision but may not be good candidates for laser refractive surgery, such as LASIK or PRK.
Alternative names
Phakic intraocular lens (phakic IOL); Permanent contact lens
Causes
Implantable collamer lenses are a good alternative for people who are not good candidates for laser vision correction. People get implantable collamer lenses to correct certain causes of blurry vision including:
- Nearsightedness (myopia): Trouble seeing far away
- Astigmatism: Blurred vision caused by an uneven eye shape
- Severe prescriptions: Glasses or regular contact lenses that may not fully cover a person full required prescription or refractive error
Symptoms
You may need an implantable contact lens if you have:
- Blurry vision when looking far away
- Headaches or eye strain from poor vision
- Thick glasses or difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Vision that is not entirely corrected with glasses or LASIK
Exams and tests
- Detailed eye examination
- Corneal measurements
- Pupil size and tear production
- Refraction and lens calculation
- Refractive error stability
Treatments
ICL surgery is an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day. During the surgery, the doctor makes a small opening in your eye and places the implantable lens in the front area of your eye. Unlike LASIK eye surgery, no tissue is removed, and the cornea is not reshaped. Recovery is usually quick, and many patients notice improved vision within a day or two.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Most patients enjoy clear vision after ICL surgery. It can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
The ICL can stay in your eye permanently, but it can also be removed or replaced if needed. Unlike cataract surgery, where the cloudy natural lens is removed, your natural lens remains in place during ICL surgery and an additional lens is placed in front of it.
Possible complications
In severe cases, vision loss, glare and halos, infection, cataracts, glaucoma and retinal detachment can occur.
When to contact a medical professional
Contact your provider right away if:
- You have intense or persistent pain around the eye, which can indicate high eye pressure
- You have severe glare or halos
- You have redness or swelling
- You have unusual or colored eye discharge
Prevention
After surgery, patients are seen multiple times to ensure good healing. General restrictions may include, avoiding strenuous activities such as heavy lifting and bending past the waist. It is recommended to avoid water exposure to the eyes for at least 1-2 weeks. You will need to use medicated eye drops after surgery for about a month.