ICL
ICL, high-strength implantable contact lens
Alternative to laser eye surgery
ICL implantation is an alternative for those not eligible for laser eye surgery, such as people with a higher strength (> -8) or a thin cornea. For an ICL lens, it does not matter how high the correction is. It is a reversible procedure. So, the lens can be removed if necessary.
How does ICL work?
An ICL or implantable contact lens is a special lens that is placed in the eye, in front of the own natural lens. So the natural lens is not replaced, as with lens replacement.
Which conditions are treated with ICL?
Both myopia and astigmatism are corrected simultaneously with ICL.
Who is eligible for ICL?
In principle, anyone with stable diopter strength is a candidate for ICL implantation. In practice, this technique is mainly reserved for higher corrections. If laser eye treatment with ReLEx smile, Femto LASIK or PRK is possible, we will choose laser. After all, ICL involves surgery inside the eye, so it is slightly more invasive than laser. Also, ICL requires lifelong annual follow-up.
What can you expect during and after surgery?
Ten minutes
The procedure is performed entirely on an outpatient basis and only takes about ten minutes. You will be given a local anesthetic and experience only minimal discomfort.
Aftercare
The day after the procedure, you come in for follow-up and start using eye drops. Your vision is usually quite good by then. In the subsequent weeks, this improves further and stabilizes. We expect you will miss a minimum of work. After this procedure, you will not suffer from dry eyes since your cornea was not treated.
Why ICL?
Alternative when laser eye surgery is not possible
Frequently asked questions about ICL
Is the effect of ICL permanent?
Yes, the result is permanent, and it is in principle also reversible. The lens can therefore be removed again if necessary.
What must I be aware of after the procedure?
The day after the procedure, you come in for your initial follow-up. We will continue to carefully monitor your recovery after that. We will ask you to bear in mind the following:
- Do not use makeup for 2 weeks.
- Avoid swimming pools and saunas for 2 weeks.
- Wear good sunglasses with a UV filter if you suffer from photosensitivity at the start.
- Do not rub your eyes after treatment. You may dab around the eye with a tissue, if you wish.
- Use the eye drops according to instructions. This way the surface of the eye heals faster and you avoid infections.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before using eye drops or touching the area around your eyes.
Read more about aftercare.
When will I be able to function again after ICL?
The day after the procedure, your vision will usually already be rather good. Bear in mind a limited ability to work. Unlike a Femto LASIK treatment, you will not suffer from dry eyes after this procedure because your cornea was not treated.
Is ICL safe?
ICL is a safe procedure that is performed entirely on an outpatient basis and only takes about ten minutes. It does involve surgery inside the eye, which makes it a bit more invasive than laser eye treatment with ReLEx smile or Femto LASIK.