‘ICL Lens Implantation’: When Is It Most Effective?

When people think of vision correction, LASIK or LASEK usually comes to mind.

However, for those with thin corneas, high myopia, or those who frequently engage in activities with high risk of impact, other options may be more suitable.

One of those options is implantable lens surgery.

As the name suggests, this procedure involves placing a special corrective lens inside the eye to improve vision.

Although it resembles cataract surgery in technique, it differs in that the natural lens remains untouched, and the implant is placed in front of or behind it.

Currently, the most commonly used method is posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation, especially the ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens).

This lens is made of a biocompatible material called collamer, which allows it to remain stable in the eye without causing discomfort.

Who is a good candidate for ICL surgery?

ICL surgery can be a highly effective choice for:

1) High myopia: Because LASIK and LASEK involve reshaping the cornea, they can become risky when correcting large refractive errors, as more corneal tissue must be removed. ICL can be a safer option in such cases.

2) Thin corneas: Patients with thin corneas may not qualify for laser-based surgeries. Since ICL surgery does not involve corneal removal, it may be more appropriate.

3) Severe dry eye: Laser surgeries can temporarily worsen dry eye by affecting corneal nerves. ICL surgery minimizes this risk.

4) Jobs or sports with high risk of trauma: For those in physically demanding fields—such as military personnel or contact sports athletes—ICL, which doesn't involve cutting the cornea, may offer greater safety.

That said, simply meeting one of the above criteria does not automatically mean ICL is the right choice.

As always, the most important step is to undergo a comprehensive exam and consult with a specialist to determine the best method for your eye condition and lifestyle.

The ICL procedure

Like other types of vision correction surgery, the first step is a thorough preoperative exam.

This includes measurements of corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth, iris structure, and lens positioning.

Next, a custom lens is ordered based on your unique eye parameters, including prescription, size, and curvature. This step may take 1–2 weeks.

Once the lens is ready, you'll prepare for surgery by resting your eyes and following the preoperative care instructions.

Under local anesthesia, a 2–3 mm incision is made on the edge of the cornea, and the folded lens is inserted and positioned inside the eye.

Because the incision is very small, no sutures are typically required, and recovery is quick.

Vision usually improves within hours after surgery.

Patients use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up appointments to monitor for any complications during recovery.

What are the benefits of ICL surgery?

ICL is not merely a fallback option for those who can’t undergo LASIK or LASEK—it is a fundamentally strong procedure with several advantages.

The biggest benefit is that it does not involve cutting the cornea.

This helps maintain the structural integrity of the cornea, contributing to long-term safety.

Also, the lens can be removed or replaced later, offering flexibility.

ICL provides excellent correction for high myopia and helps preserve night vision and contrast sensitivity.

Since it does not affect the corneal nerves, dry eye symptoms are rare post-surgery.

Of course, like any surgery, ICL has points that require careful consideration.

Accurate preoperative measurements are crucial. Rare complications like lens mispositioning or iris contact may occur.

In extremely rare cases, lens placement may trigger cataracts, so routine monitoring is essential.

Also, some patients may experience a temporary increase in intraocular pressure after the procedure, which requires careful observation in the first few days.

A common concern is the cost.

Since ICL involves custom-manufactured lenses, it is typically more expensive than LASIK or LASEK.

However, ICL should not be viewed simply as an alternative. It is an advanced, premium vision correction procedure in its own right.

Especially for patients with high myopia, thin corneas, or occupational needs, it may be the most ideal solution.

At BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil, we conduct dozens of detailed tests before recommending any surgery, ensuring that you receive the safest and most appropriate option based on expert consultation.

If you're seeking to enhance the quality of your visual life, ICL may be worth considering. Feel free to contact us with any questions.

Thank you.