If you’re tired of glasses or contact lenses but not quite ready for LASIK, Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery offers an exciting, long-term solution. This advanced vision correction procedure is safe, effective, and completely reversible—making it ideal for individuals with high myopia, astigmatism, or thin corneas who may not qualify for laser eye surgery.
Welcome to a new era in refractive surgery where clear, crisp vision doesn’t have to involve reshaping your cornea.
What Is an Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)?
An Implantable Contact Lens, also known as a Phakic Intraocular Lens (Phakic IOL), is a permanent artificial lens implanted inside the eye, between the natural lens and the iris. Unlike external contact lenses, ICLs work from within the eye to correct refractive errors—without removing or damaging any natural tissue.
It functions like a traditional contact lens but offers long-lasting correction for:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Astigmatism
- (Some cases of farsightedness with specific lens types)
Key Benefits of ICL Surgery
👁️ Sharp, High-Definition Vision
ICLs provide clearer, sharper vision than glasses or soft contact lenses. Patients often achieve 20/20 or better vision.
🔄 Reversible & Adjustable
Unlike LASIK or PRK, ICLs can be removed or replaced if your prescription changes or if future eye conditions develop.
❄️ No Corneal Reshaping
Ideal for people with thin or irregular corneas who are not candidates for laser vision correction.
🌙 Excellent Night Vision
Many patients report superior night vision and reduced glare compared to traditional LASIK or glasses.
🛡️ UV Protection
ICLs come with built-in UV filters, protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
💨 Quick Recovery Time
Most patients return to their normal routines within 1 to 2 days post-surgery, with vision improving rapidly.
Who Is a Good Candidate for ICL?
You may be an ideal candidate if you:
- Are between 21 and 45 years old
- Have moderate to severe myopia (-3.00 to -20.00 diopters)
- Have astigmatism up to 4.00 diopters (with toric ICL)
- Have healthy eyes with no history of glaucoma or significant cataracts
- Are not eligible for LASIK due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or high prescriptions
Your eye surgeon will conduct a comprehensive eye exam, including corneal thickness measurement, anterior chamber depth, and pupil size, to determine your suitability.
The ICL Procedure: What to Expect
ICL implantation is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that takes about 15–30 minutes per eye:
- Topical anesthesia is applied (no needles or general anesthesia).
- A tiny incision is made in the cornea.
- The foldable lens is inserted and positioned behind the iris.
- The lens unfolds and is adjusted for perfect alignment.
- No stitches required—healing begins immediately.
You may experience some blurriness or light sensitivity in the first 24 hours, but most patients see dramatic improvement in vision within one day.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Rest for 24–48 hours and avoid rubbing your eyes
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops as prescribed
- Avoid swimming, heavy exercise, or eye makeup for 1–2 weeks
- Attend all follow-up visits to monitor healing and lens positioning
ICL vs. LASIK: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | ICL | LASIK |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Lens inserted into the eye | Corneal reshaping with laser |
| Reversibility | Yes | No |
| Treats high myopia | ✔️ Up to -20.00 D | ❌ Limited to about -12.00 D |
| Thin corneas OK? | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Night vision | Excellent | May cause halos/glare |
| Long-term safety | Very high | High, but permanent changes |
If your prescription is high, your corneas are thin, or you prefer a reversible option, ICL may be the better choice.
Why Choose ICL Surgery in Korea?
Korea is a global leader in refractive surgery, known for:
- Top-tier eye hospitals with advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment
- Highly trained ophthalmologists with international credentials
- KFDA-approved EVO Visian ICL™ lenses (the latest model with no peripheral iridotomy needed)
- Medical tourism support for international patients seeking high-quality care at affordable prices
- Advanced aftercare programs including vision rehab and dry eye management
What Is the EVO Visian ICL™?
The EVO Visian ICL™ is the newest generation of implantable lenses. It’s FDA and KFDA approved, offering:
- Central port (hole) design, eliminating the need for pre-surgery iridotomy
- Seamless vision correction with less pressure on the natural lens
- Improved lens material for long-term clarity and safety
Risks and Considerations
ICL is a very safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries potential risks:
- Increased eye pressure (rare, usually temporary)
- Infection (extremely rare with proper care)
- Cataract development (in long-term studies, especially in older patients)
- Need for enhancement or lens exchange
Choosing a skilled and experienced eye surgeon is key to minimizing risks and achieving optimal outcomes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking long-lasting, high-quality vision correction without altering your cornea, ICL offers a flexible and highly effective alternative to LASIK. With quick recovery, superior night vision, and reversibility, it’s the smart solution for patients with high prescriptions or sensitive eyes.
Experience the freedom of clear vision—without glasses, contacts, or permanent laser changes.
