ICL (implantable contact lens) is a contact lens implanted over the eye’s existing lens.
The ICL is a very thin lens similar to a normal prescription contact lens and works in much the same way to adjust and improve vision.
ICL has the advantage of being reversible and is used for higher prescription corrections or for those not suitable for laser surgery.
Before the actual procedure, the eye is numbed with anaesthetic eye drops.
During the procedure a small incision is made to enable placement of the ICL. The lens is placed behind the iris (the coloured part of eye) and in front of the eye’s natural lens.
Often a surgeon will fold the ICL before placement and unfold it within the eye.
ICL is made from a biologically compatible material known as ‘Collamer’ which is a combination of collagen with a soft, flexible polymer.
The ICL procedure usually takes around 20 minutes and the incision heals on its own within days.
Both eyes can be treated with ICL at the same time.
Vision correction with ICL is achieved immediately as there is no corneal tissue removal. Complete recovery usually takes one to two days.