What is ICL Surgery?
The Visian ICL™, also known as the Implantable Collamer Lens, is a type of refractive procedure to help correct nearsightedness. For years, the only method that didn’t involve glasses or contacts was corrective laser eye surgery. With the advent of the Visian ICL™, however, that’s all changed. Using an implanted lens that is similar to what is used in cataract surgery, ICL™ Implantation removes many of the risks associated with LASIK and PRK surgery.
The Visian ICL™ corrects moderate to severe myopia, or nearsightedness, as well as astigmatism. ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery offers a cutting-edge solution for patients with moderate to severe nearsightedness who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK or PRK.
The ICL™ Procedure
The procedure to implant an ICL™ lens is similar to that of cataract surgery. The main difference is that, unlike cataract surgery, the Visian ICL™ procedure does not require the removal of the eye’s crystalline lens. And unlike the LASIK or PRK refractive procedures, the Visian ICL™ procedure does not involve the removal of sensitive eye tissue. The entire procedure for the implantation of the Visian ICL will take about 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients say it is relatively painless because of the numbing agents used.
Who is a Candidate for ICL Surgery?
The Visian ICL™ is intended for use by patients between the ages of 21 and 45 who are nearsighted and have no previous history of ophthalmic diseases such as iritis, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. Among patients who fit into this category, the Visian ICL™ is an excellent option for those who do not meet the eligibility requirements for LASIK, such as those with extremely thin corneas or those predisposed to dry eye syndrome. Because there is no change to the cornea, many of the side effects of LASIK, such as halos and glare. The only way to determine if you are a candidate for the ICL™ is to have a thorough ophthalmic exam by one of our doctors familiar with the Visian ICL™ here at Treasure Coast Eye Specialists.