What Is Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Refractive Surgery?

The STAAR Surgical ICL, also known as the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a highly advanced, thin, clear lens that functions like a contact lens but is surgically implanted into the eye.  It corrects common vision problems, like nearsightedness, astigmatism, and farsightedness.  

ICL is a soft, flexible lens that is positioned in your eye between the iris (colored part of the eye) and your natural lens.

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The ICL procedure is a low-risk, long-term solution, and as such is a good option for many patients.  Unlike laser refractive correction procedures, the ICL procedure does not remove corneal tissue.  It works in harmony with your natural eyes to provide exceptional quality of vision.  Because the procedure does not remove corneal tissue, there is less risk of inducing dry eye syndrome after the procedure and less activity limitations (such as sporting activities).  It also produces the sharpest vision correction and night vision outcomes.

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You may download a copy of the patient brochure here

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Who is suitable for ICL?

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The Visian Toric ICL is indicated for use in patients 21-45 years of age

• For the correction of up to -15.0D of short-sightedness (myopia) and +10.0D of long-sightedness (hyperopia) and up to 6.0D of astigmatism.

• Reduce severity of myopia ranging from greater than -15.0 D to -20.0 D.

• Has an anterior chamber depth of 3.00 mm or greater

• A stable refractive history (within 0.5D for both spherical equivalent and cylinder for 1 year prior to implantation)

 

Who is not suitable for ICL?

• Shallow anterior chamber depth  of < 3.00 mm

• Anterior chamber angle less than grade II determined by gonioscopic examination

• Pregnancy or nursing

• Has corneal endothelium disorder

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What does the procedure involve?

ICL at our practice is performed by Dr George Kong.

ICL procedure is generally a quick minimally invasive procedure performed in day surgery facility.  You will be given light sedation anaesthetic with calming effect and with eye drop anaesthetic to numb the eye.  An anaethetist will make sure you're comfortable throughout the procedure.  The procedure generally takes 15 to 20 minutes.  The ICL is introduced into the eye through a small incision on the edge of the cornea and manoeuvred into position.  The small incision wound is self-sealing, therefore no suture is required for the procedure.

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