What is the Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL) Procedure?
An Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL), or Phakic IOL, is a thin intraocular lens designed to rest in front of the eye’s natural lens, just behind the iris. It is made of a biocompatible material called collamer, which is designed to function in harmony with the eyes.
Introduced in 2002 in North America, the Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure is a great alternative for patients who are not candidates for laser vision correction. ICLs are an option for patients with high levels of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism too extreme for laser vision correction.
ICL Facts
- Herzig Eye Institute was one of the first centres in North America to insert an ICL
- Over 99% of ICL patients say they would have the procedure again
- Although designed to be a permanent vision correction solution, it is removable and reversible
- Most patients note their vision has improved directly following their procedure
- ICLs have built in UV protection
“We realized there were a lot of patients who couldn’t have a laser-based vision correction procedure and we had to turn a lot of them away. It was extremely disappointing.
Along came this wonderful procedure: the ICL. About 20 years ago, I started doing the ICL procedure and it’s been one of the most exciting and rewarding of all the refractive procedures.
The ICL was a revolutionary treatment. We could put this tiny lens into someone’s eye and change their vision overnight – quickly and safely.”
-Dr. Sheldon Herzig, Chief Medical Officer & Co-Founder
Why do refractive surgeons recommend ICL over a laser vision correction procedure?
ICL Candidacy
An ICL is typically suggested for people with extreme prescriptions where laser vision correction is not possible or deemed unsafe. It is also a treatment option for those with thinner corneas and dry eye syndrome.
During your consultation, you will undergo diagnostic testing to determine your candidacy for a vision correction procedure. To understand what procedure is right for you, you will meet with one of our experienced Refractive Consultants to discuss your vision goals, ask any questions you might have, share the results of your diagnostics and eye examination, book your procedure date, and discuss any pre-operative considerations and instructions.
Treatment Alternatives
If you are deemed ineligible for ICL during your consultation, you may be a candidate for one of our other procedures, such as SMILE, LASIK, PRK, or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE).
What to Expect
The pre-operative considerations for an ICL are different because custom lenses must be ordered in advance. Because an ICL is an intraocular procedure, a pre-operative measurement appointment is required to determine the power of your EVO+ Visian ICL™ lens. Some pre-operative considerations include:
- Switching to glasses and refraining from contact lens wear for the time period outlined by your Refractive Consultant
- An additional consultation may be scheduled to check the health of your retina (the back of your eye)
- Arranging transportation to and from Herzig Eye Institute for your procedure day
The EVO+ Visian ICL™ procedure is a minimally invasive, quick, and comfortable procedure. It is completed in approximately 20 minutes. The eyes are numbed using anesthetic drops, then the ICL is inserted through an opening so tiny, it does not even require stitches.
Directly following the procedure, you will be examined by the surgeon. After your examination, it is recommended you go home and rest as you may be experiencing blurry vision, some discomfort, and sensitivity to light. Discomfort is normal during this time.
A medicated drop regimen must be followed after the procedure. The drop schedule will be reviewed with you and any questions you have will be answered. Other directions will be provided by your Refractive Consultant, the nurses, and the surgeon on the day of your procedure.
It is critical you are seen for all requested post-operative appointments at Herzig Eye Institute or with your referring optometrist.
Through the Eyes of a Patient
To learn more about the Herzig Eye Institute experience, watch these videos through the eyes of patients who underwent their own ICL procedures.
