Implantable Contact Lenses • ICL

What is ICL and how does it work?

Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) also called intraocular lenses (IOL) or phakik IOL can give very clear and accurate vision by inserting a soft lens and leaving the natural lens of the eye in place.

The ICL, which is similar to a contact lens, it inserted inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. ICL is not placed on the corneal surface. The brief outpatient procedure takes only minutes. The implantable contact lens is inserted through a tiny incision and then unfolded into position in front of the natural lens, working with it to give you clear unaided vision. The procedure is sutureless because the incision is so small. This means that post-operative discomfort is minimal and healing is faster than some procedures.

The ICL is an out-patient procedure which means patients go home the same day. Patients are generally given light or local anesthesia and normally no pain is associated with the procedure.

Implantable Contact Lenses are an option for patients with severe myopia or hyperopia, who cannot be corrected with LASIK or patients who for other reasons are not good candidates for laser refractive surgery. Most eye surgeons agree that the best ICL candidates are between 21 and 50 years of age with somewhat moderate to severe nearsighted vision.

The ICL gives excellent vision quality and has been used with ever improving technology and materials since it was first demonstrated in 1949. ICL is popular and successful alternative to LASIK, PRK, refractive lens exchange, or other laser refractive surgeries. Ask our doctors at East Valley Eye Center if intraocular lenses are right for you.

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