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ICL Implants

Implantable Contact Lens | Phakic implants

The Implantable Collamer Lens (also known as Implantable Contact Lens) is a refractive lens implanted inside the eye to correct near-sightedness, far-sightedness or astigmatism. It represents an alternative to other laser refractive surgeries such as LASIK or LASEK/TransPRK. The ICL is implanted through a key-hole incision in the eye behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye), and in front of the natural crystalline lens.

The ICL can correct a wide range of refractive errors between +10 (far-sightedness) and -18 (near-sightedness). Astigmatism of up to 6 dioptres can also be corrected. Your spectacle prescription should ideally have been stable for at least a year prior to surgery.

Mr Gore is a Visian ICL certified surgeon.


Find out more with EVO

EVO Visian ICL Overview

This short video from discoverevo.com will give you an overview of what the EVO Visian ICL can offer

Meet Phil Torres

Meet Visian ICL ambassador Phil Torres. As an entomologist Phil's vision is very important, especially when searching for rare insects in the Ecuadorian rainforest. Watch and learn why the Visian ICL procedure was the best for Phil's eyes and his career.

Further Information

Click here for more information direct from EVO Visian ICL. More information from us is available on request by email or in person at your consultation.

Additional information about ICL surgery is available from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.
You can also get answers to some frequently asked questions about ICL surgery below.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


How much do ICL implants cost?
Information on prices for all of our procedures can be found on our Prices pages.
How long does it take?

ICL surgery is performed as a day-case procedure lasting 15 minutes per eye. Both eyes are typically treated on the same day. 

Does the procedure hurt?
Anaesthetic drops are used to completely numb the eye before the beginning of the procedure. Sedation can additionally be given intravenously to help you stay relaxed during the operation.
Are ICL Implants permanent?
Natural changes in your prescription can occur at any age, irrespective of previous surgery. Normal age-related cataracts will likely still develop as you get older. ICL implants can be readily removed should you require cataract surgery.
How long does it take to recover from ICL implants?
You will be able to return home the same day. General anaesthesia is not necessary, although is available if you prefer. You will normally be able to return to work after a couple of days. Antibiotic and steroid drops are required for 2 weeks.
How good will my vision be following ICL surgery?
You should notice your unaided vision improving just a few hours after surgery. Your vision will continue to improve in the days following the procedure. Antibiotic and steroid drops are required for 2 weeks. If your prescription is outside of the ICL range, full correction of your vision may require laser correction a few months after ICL surgery (bioptics).
What are ICLs made of?
The material is called Collamer®, a collagen co-polymer that contains a small amount of purified collagen. The remainder is made of a material similar to that which is found in soft contact lenses. It is biocompatible (meaning it does not cause any negative immune system reaction within the eye) and stable. ICLs also contain an ultraviolet light filter to protect the eye.
Can the ICL be felt once it is in place?
No, the ICL is not noticeable once it has been implanted. It also cannot be seen when looking in the mirror.
Can the ICL be removed?
ICL surgery is completely reversible. In the unlikely event of a major prescription change or the availability of new vision correction options, your ICL lens can be removed.
Am I suitable for ICL implants?
Patients who are pregnant and nursing should not have any form of refractive eye surgery (ICL or laser). Patients with a narrow drainage angle in the front chamber of their eye are not suitable for ICL surgery. Mr Gore will advise you during your consultation whether or not ICL surgery will be an option for you.
Are ICL implants safe?

ICL implants are a popular and safe alternative to laser refractive surgery, with an excellent track record over the 20 years since their introduction. More than 1,000,000 lenses have been implanted worldwide and the ICL system has earned a reputation for proven patient satisfaction and long-term safety.

What are the potential risks of the ICL surgery?

Short-term discomfort after ICL surgery is to be expected. Grittiness, light sensitivity, dryness and tearing are also common for the first few days. Many patients experience glare and haloes around lights for a few months following the implantation of the ICL, but these symptoms generally become less noticeable with time. The risk of a serious complication, principally infection, during the first few days following ICL surgery is approximately 1 in 6000. An infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis) may cause permanent damage to your vision.

Up to 1 in 40 cases require an adjustment of the ICL or replacement of the ICL. This would typically be due to the ICL not sitting correctly inside the eye. Adjusting or replacing the ICL would involve a further operation. No additional charge would apply for this.

Early development of cataract may also occur. In published studies, with up to 7 year follow-up data, between 1 – 2% of patients have required cataract surgery to restore vision following ICL implantation. Newer ICL designs have a central port (CentraFLOW®) which allows for normal flow of fluid within the eye. This will likely further reduce the risk of cataract.

Do I need long-term check-ups after ICL surgery?

Yes. Annual review of your vision and eye health with a high-street optician is recommended to monitor for the main long-term risks of cataract formation and raised pressure in the eye.



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