What is ICL Eye Surgery? 10 Interesting Facts You Should Know

1.  ICL uses special lenses to treat severe myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

What is ICL? It stands for Implantable Collamer Lens, a special type of lens that is inserted between the iris and your natural lens. Most cases of high degree myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism are recommended to undergo ICL due to higher efficiency rates compared to other refractive eye surgeries.

The typical diopters due for ICL surgery are as follows:

• Myopia: -8.00D or (up to -20.0D)
• Hyperopia: +4.00D or above
• Astigmatism: 1.0D to 4.0D

2. ICL can be done on thin corneas.

Compared to LASIK and PRK, thin corneas are not a problem for ICL. Because it involves zero ablation (removal of corneal tissue), ICL is the safest option for patients with thin corneas. It helps them achieve excellent vision without the risks brought about by laser procedure.

3. Implantable Collamer Lenses are safe to use.

The sophisticated, rectangular lenses used for ICL surgery are made of collagen and polymer material, which is what makes it flexible and lightweight. These characteristics make it easy for the lens to absorb nutrients and exchange gas. Compared to refractive contact lenses, ICL is inserted farther from the cornea. This means less risk of damage to the cornea or retinal detachment.

4. ICL does not use lasers.

The use of lasers is what differentiates what is ICL in eye surgery. While procedures like LASIK and PRK use femtosecond or excimer lasers to ablate or reshape the cornea, ICL uses a special blade to make a tiny incision in the eye. Because ICL does not reshape the cornea, special lenses are only inserted through this incision. In some cases, however, surgeons may use lasers to make the same incision. 

5. ICL is reversible and replaceable.

Reversibility is one of the traits that highlight what is ICL in eye surgery. Laser treatments permanently reshape the cornea to correct vision problems. On the other hand, ICL only uses a special lens. Although implanted lenses are long-lasting, you can ask your doctor to remove them later in life, usually to change prescription or to undergo cataract surgery.

6. It is the top alternative to LASIK or PRK.

Despite the popularity of laser treatments, many are still eager to know what is ICL eye surgery. It is a safe, foolproof alternative for patients with extremely high levels of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This is because LASIK or PRK requires removing greater amounts of tissue, which can be unsafe. By using advanced, biocompatible lenses, ICL eliminates the need for excessive reshaping of the cornea.

7. Implanted lenses offer UV protection.

As you discover what is ICL, it is also important to know how it protects your eyes. ICL offers built-in UV protection. Its collagen-based materials naturally block the harmful ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun and radiation. Not only can this surgery improve your vision, but also add protection for your eyes.

8. ICL eye surgery is great for people with active lifestyles.

Athletes, sports enthusiasts, or individuals with physically demanding jobs can benefit greatly from ICL. It eliminates the need for glasses or contacts that get in the way of movement. ICL helps you worry less about interruptions to your everyday tasks while providing clearer vision.

9. ICL eye surgeons in the Philippines use high-quality lenses.

At present, trusted eye clinics in the Philippines use the EVO implantable collamer lens manufactured by STAAR Surgical, a leading American firm and developer of industry-grade ICL. It is crucial to coordinate with your doctor what ICL lens they use. Make sure to work with a clinic that chooses authentic, FDA-approved lenses that are safe to use.

10. ICL eye surgery delivers immediate results.

Patients report improved vision as early as a few hours to a day after ICL eye surgery. Fortunately, due to the small size of the incision made, it is possible to resume your regular routine after a short rest. 

In some cases, however, the complete recovery process may take some time. Doctors typically place protective goggles or eyewear for the first 24 hours. During this time, your vision may be hazy and you might experience dry eyes and light sensitivity. They will also prescribe eye drops, used regularly for at least 4 to 6 weeks to aid with healing.