ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery in India

What Is ICL Surgery?

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) eye surgery is a procedure that corrects refractive errors like astigmatism, myopia, hypermetropia, and more. Unlike LASIK or PRK, which reshape the cornea, ICL surgery involves inserting a thin, flexible lens between the eye’s natural lens and the iris. This placement helps improve visual acuity without altering the corneal structure.

The material used in ICL lenses, Collamer, is biocompatible. This means that the human body accepts it quickly and like its own. This reduces the risk of complications compared to other corrective eye surgeries. ICL operation for eyes is especially beneficial for unsuitable candidates for LASIK.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with ICL Procedure?

  • Nearsightedness (Myopia): ICL surgery is ideal for individuals who struggle to see objects at a distance due to myopia.
  • Farsightedness (Hyperopia): ICL surgery can help correct this refractive error for those with difficulty seeing objects up close.
  • Astigmatism: Implantable Collamer Lens can correct moderate to high levels of astigmatism. This condition causes blurry vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.
  • Thin Corneas: Individuals who cannot undergo LASIK due to thin corneas are often suitable candidates for ICL surgery.

Benefits of ICL Surgery

  • High Visual Clarity: Implantable Collamer Lens provides sharp, clear vision for individuals with high eye power or complex refractive errors.
  • Reversible Procedure: The ICL can be removed or replaced, offering flexibility if vision needs change.
  • No Corneal Reshaping: Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery does not involve removing or reshaping any part of the cornea, preserving the natural structure of the eye.
  • Biocompatibility: The collamer lens is made from natural materials readily accepted by the human body and not treated as an alien object.
  • UV Protection: ICL lenses provide additional protection from harmful UV rays, preserving overall eye health.

Eligibility Criteria for ICL Surgery

  • Individuals with High Prescriptions: Patients with severe myopia or astigmatism that cannot be corrected with LASIK are excellent candidates for ICL surgery.
  • People with Thin Corneas: Those not eligible for LASIK due to thin or irregular corneas can rely on ICL as a safe alternative.
  • Patients Aged 21 to 45: ICL surgery is typically recommended for people within this age range because their prescriptions tend to stabilise.
  • People Seeking Reversible Vision Correction: Since the ICL can be removed, this surgery is a great option for individuals looking for a flexible vision correction solution.
  • Individuals Without a History of Eye Diseases: Candidates should not have any significant history of eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts to undergo ICL surgery safely.

ICL Eye Surgery Procedure

Pre-surgery Preparation

Before ICL surgery, a thorough eye examination is conducted to assess your eye health, power, and eligibility. Your surgeon may also recommend not using contact lenses for a few weeks before the surgery. This is because contact lenses alter the shape of your cornea temporarily. Measurements of your eye, including the length and thickness, are taken to ensure the correct lens size. You’ll also be informed about the ICL surgery cost at this stage.

Are you worried about the cost of ICL eye surgery?

During the Surgery

ICL surgery is quick and painless, usually within 20 to 30 minutes. A numbing eye drop is applied to prevent discomfort, and a small incision is made in the cornea. The Implantable Collamer Lens is then folded and inserted into the space between your iris and the natural lens through the incision. Once in place, the lens unfolds and is adjusted for optimal vision correction. The incision heals naturally without stitches, resulting in quicker recovery.

After Surgery

Post-surgery, you may experience slight blurriness or sensitivity to light, which is normal and temporary. Your eye surgeon will provide eye drops to help with healing and prevent infection. A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled the day after surgery to monitor any side effects of ICL surgery. Most patients experience improved vision within a day or two, although full recovery may take a few weeks.

What is the Recovery Time of ICL Surgery?

The recovery time for ICL surgery is generally quick, with most patients returning to their normal activities within two to three days. While you may experience some light sensitivity or blurriness immediately after the surgery, these side effects typically subside within the first week. It’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes and follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure no complications from ICL treatment for eyes.

Precautions of ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery

  • Avoid Rubbing of Eyes: After surgery, it’s crucial not to rub your eyes to prevent any ICL complications.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Attending all follow-up appointments ensures your eyes are healing properly and helps your surgeon detect any early signs of complications.
  • Take Medicines as Prescribed: Use prescribed eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infections.
  • Avoid Strenuous Activities: For the first few weeks after surgery, avoid heavy lifting, swimming, or any activities that may put stress on your eyes.
  • Use Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses, especially in bright sunlight.

Possible ICL Surgery Complications

  • Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, but this can be minimized by following post-operative care instructions and using prescribed eye drops.
  • Increased Eye Pressure: Some patients may experience elevated intraocular pressure after surgery, which can usually be managed with medication or additional treatment.
  • Cataract Development: Although rare, there is a slight risk of developing cataracts due to the positioning of the Implantable Collamer Lens, especially if patients have other underlying health issues.
  • Night Glare or Halos: Some individuals report seeing halos or glare around lights, particularly at night, after the surgery.
  • Lens Dislocation: While uncommon, the implanted lens can shift from its original position, requiring a follow-up procedure for adjustment.

ICL Procedure Cost

The cost of ICL surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case, the location, and the surgeon’s expertise. While this cost may seem higher than other vision correction surgeries, the long-term benefits, including the reversible nature of the procedure, often outweigh the initial expense. Additionally, Centre for Sight, India, offers flexible EMI payment options to make the procedure more affordable.

Why Choose Centre for Sight for ICL Surgery in India?

  • Experienced Surgeons: Centre for Sight boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced surgeons who specialize in ICL surgery, ensuring you receive top-tier care.
  • Newest Technology: The clinic has the latest technology, allowing for precise and safe procedures.
  • Comprehensive Care: From pre-operative assessments to post-operative care, Centre for Sight offers comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
  • Personalised Approach: Centre for Sight, India, always keeps the comfort and satisfaction of its patients first, with personalized care and support throughout the surgical journey.
  • Trustworthy: Centre for Sight, India, has a strong reputation in eye care and vision correction procedures, making it a trusted choice for patients seeking ICL surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ICL Eye Surgery Permanent?

ICL surgery is a permanent vision correction solution, but regular eye check-ups and occasional adjustments might be required.

Yes, ICL is a FDA approved surgery which offers crystal clear vision even for high refractive errors without any higher risk of complications.

Yes, ICL surgery is considered permanent, but individual factors can affect long-term outcomes; however visual enhancements can be done.

ICL surgery is generally considered one of the safest eye surgeries, however, like any other surgical procedure, it too carries some risks, like infection or glare, but serious complications are rare.

Individuals with certain eye conditions or health issues may not be suitable candidates.

Typically 15-30 minutes per eye.

At Centre For Sight, it starts from 1,70,000 per eye only. EMI options are available too.

ICL operation can provide long-term vision correction, but some may still require glasses for certain tasks.

Can ICL surgery be done during pregnancy?

It’s generally recommended to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding for elective surgeries.

ICL eye surgery and LASIK both have their advantages. ICL may be better for individuals with high prescriptions or thin corneas, as it doesn’t reshape the cornea like LASIK does. ICL is also reversible, offering flexibility if your vision changes. However, LASIK is more widely available and may be preferred for those with mild to moderate refractive errors.

It is considered a safe and effective procedure for correcting vision, especially for those not eligible for LASIK. It’s minimally invasive, reversible, and has a quick recovery time. Like any surgery, there are risks, but for most people, the benefits outweigh the potential downsides.

How Much Does ICL Cost?

The cost of ICL surgery varies based on factors like prescription, location, surgeon’s experience, and complexity of the surgery. At Centre For Sight, it is available only at 1,70,000 for both eyes.

Implantable collamer lens implants can last a lifetime, but occasional adjustments may be required.

Both ICL and LASIK specs-removal surgeries have their own pros and cons but the choice between them should depend on factors like refractive error range, cornea strength, corneal thickness, and the person’s individual preferences.

Yes, ICL can be removed if necessary.

Between the iris and the natural lens.

No, it’s usually not felt as it’s inside the eye.

Eye is numbed, a small incision is made, and the lens is inserted. Minimal discomfort and quick recovery are typical.

In some cases, yes, for specific tasks.

So Curious to know the ways to Get rid of Glasses or Contact Lenses tap here

Implantable Collamer Lenses are designed to be permanent and can last a lifetime. However, they are removable and replaceable, offering flexibility in case your vision changes or other complications arise.

ICL surgery is generally not painful. Patients receive numbing eye drops, and the procedure itself is quick. Some discomfort or sensitivity may occur after surgery but usually subsides within a few days.

ICL (Intraocular Collamer Lens) Surgery

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery in India