Surgeries
Myopia
Eye Disease
Implantable contact lenses (ICLs), also known as phakic
IOLs, correct vision in much the same way that external
contact lenses do, except ICLs are placed inside the
eye where they permanently improve vision. ICLs are
also similar to intraocular lenses which are used during
cataract surgery to replace the eye’s natural
lens. However, during ICL surgery, the natural lens
is kept in the eye and works with the implanted lens
to correct vision. Implantable contact lenses give those
who are not candidates for laser vision correction an
option for permanent vision correction.
Implantable contact lenses are inserted through a small
incision in the cornea and placed behind the iris and
in front of the natural lens. These thin, pliable lenses
can be an alternative to LASIK surgery and are used
to correct conditions that laser surgery may be unable
to correct, such as extreme myopia (nearsightedness).
The outpatient procedure to place
implantable contact lenses is performed in less than
30 minutes, recovery time is relatively short. Improved
vision is often noticed the same day as surgery, and
patients fully heal within a month. The ICL procedure
is virtually pain free and has a 95 percent success
rate.
Typically, the best candidates for implantable contact
lenses are between the ages of 21 and 45, with moderate
to severe myopia. ICLs are designed for those patients
who are not good candidates for LASIK vision correction.
Implantable contact lenses have many benefits over other
types of vision correction. They can permanently improve
the vision of those with moderate to severe nearsightedness
by working with the eye’s natural lens. And unlike
LASIK vision correction, the procedure is completely
reversible.
It is important to choose
a qualified and experienced ICL surgeon for optimal
results. You should choose a surgeon who has a solid
reputation and is willing take the time to address your
questions and concerns about implantable contact lenses.
