An ICL, or implantable collamer lens, is an artificial lens designed to correct refractive errors. This specialized lens is similar to a contact lens, but is instead implanted in front of the eye’s natural lens and behind the iris. This provides long-term correction of refractive errors and is virtually unnoticeable. ICLs have been in use for nearly two decades and have a history of safety and effectiveness because no tissue is removed during the procedure. ICLs offer an effective alternative to many laser procedures.
Am I a candidate for EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer lenses?
The best candidates for ICLs are patients above 18 years old who have moderate to severe refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Most often, good candidates for ICLs are patients who are otherwise not good candidates for laser procedures because of factors like thin corneas or high prescription. In some cases, it’s possible to remove ICLs later on if needed. It’s important to note that having thin or irregular corneas, very high prescriptions, or severely dry eyes may mean that ICLs are not a good option for you. Additionally, your prescription should be stable and no longer drastically changing.
What happens during an EVO ICL procedure?
ICLs can be placed in about 10-15 minutes per eye. There is very little pain or discomfort involved, and we’ll administer anesthetic eye drops and a mild sedative so that you’re relaxed and comfortable. Once you’re ready, the ICL is inserted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens through a tiny incision. Once in place, the ICL does not touch or interact with any of the eye’s other internal structures, so you likely won’t feel or notice the lens once it’s in place.
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I came to Dr. Nguyen for ICL (implantable collamer lens) surgery, as another surgeon had evaluated me as not a good candidate for LASIK due to my high prescription. Everything was very straightforward, and the staff and Dr. Nguyen answered my questions completely and promptly, often going out of their way to answer after business hours. The surgery itself was very easy, and I had complete confidence in Dr. Nguyen - which is saying something, b/c this was my first ever surgical procedure. My recovery was a little less linear/slower than I had expected, but everyone reacts to surgery differently, especially with something as complicated as your eyes, so ymmv. The side effects were a little stressful at first, but I'm now 6 weeks post-surgery and very happy with the results
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What can I expect after the EVO ICL procedure?
After the procedure, you’ll be instructed to use prescription eye drops to reduce discomfort and help your eyes heal. The incisions are self-healing and will recover quickly. Most patients notice improvement in their vision as early as the day after the procedure where it’s often described as extremely high-definition. In the few days following the procedure, your vision will continue to improve as the eye heals and adjusts to the implant. We’ll follow up with you regularly to ensure that your eyes are healing and you’re experiencing no complications.
To get started on your options with Implantable Collamer Lenses, we invite you to request an appointment at our Falls Church office by calling or filling out our online form. Dr. Anh Nguyen and our expert ophthalmologists can recommend the right options for you for long-term vision correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ICL cause glaucoma?
ICL can cause glaucoma if the implant is oversized or incorrectly positioned, however, the chances for this are very low.
Can an intraocular lens be removed and replaced?
Although rare, IOLs (intraocular lenses) can be removed and replaced - typically because of incorrect power or shifting within the eye.
Can ICL change eye color?
No, the ICL is a clear implant that is inserted between the eyes natural lens and iris.
How long does ICL last?
ICL is permanent, but it can always be removed if necessary.
What is a toric implant?
A toric implant corrects for astigmatism just as a toric contact lens does.
How long after lens replacement can I exercise?
You can start low impact exercise on the second or third day, but you should avoid lifting heavy weights or exercises that involve bending down for the first week or two.
Is ICL permanent?
Yes, however it can always be removed if necessary.
What are toric lenses used for?
Toric lenses are used to correct for astigmatism.
Does ICL correct astigmatism?
Yes, a toric lens implant can be placed to correct for astigmatism.
What is ICL procedure?
ICL is an alternative to Lasik and PRK that reduces the dependency on glasses and contacts.
Can you get ICL after Lasik?
Yes - you can have ICL surgery after undergoing LASIK.
Do you have to get toric lenses for astigmatism?
Toric lenses are effective for astigmatism because they retain their shape rather than conforming to the surface of the eye like regular lenses. This helps accommodate astigmatic eyes which are misshapen.
How are toric lenses different?
Toric lenses are weighted at the bottom to help them retain their shape and position. This helps compensate for the irregular shape of astigmatic eyes.
Can ICL correct astigmatism?
ICL is best for myopia and astigmatism. It can achieve permanent results and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.
How long does it take for a lens implant to heal?
It can take about 8-12 weeks for an implanted lens to fully heal. During this time, its very important to protect your eyes from irritation.
Is ICL painful?
ICL is a very quick procedure performed with a local anesthetic and mild sedative so youre comfortable. Surgery is typically fully completed within 30 minutes.
What is Visian Toric ICL?
The Visian Toric ICL is an implantable lens that can restore vision permanently for patients who dont qualify for LASIK. Its similar to a contact lens that does not need to be removed.
What causes halos after ICL?
Halos can occur when the eyes dilate beyond the area of the ICL. Light that enters the pupil outside of the lens can look brighter, causing a ring effect.
What is the EVO Visian ICL Lens?
EVO Visian ICL is an implantable collamer lens that corrects refractive vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. This lens is implanted into the eye without having to reshape or remove the corneal tissue. More than 1 million EVO Visian ICL lenses have been implanted around the world.
What are the Benefits of EVO Visian ICL?
One of the main benefits of EVO Visian ICL is that patients no longer have to be dependent on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Other advantages of this lens are sharper vision, improved night vision, protection from UV rays, and a quick procedure with minimal recovery since the corneal tissue is not removed. Additionally, EVO Visian ICL does not cause dry eye syndrome and can be removed by your doctor, although most patients will keep their ICL for many years.
Who is a Candidate for Vision Correction with EVO Visian ICL?
Men and women between the ages of 21-45 who have had a stable prescription for the last year and no history of glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic eye disease are the best candidates for EVO Visian ICL. This ICL can treat moderate to severe nearsightedness, with or without an astigmatism.
How is the EVO Visian ICL Lens Procedure Performed?
The EVO Visian ICL procedure is an outpatient treatment performed under a mild sedative and anesthetic eye drops. It typically takes 20 to 30 minutes for both eyes. A tiny incision will be made in the eye and then the ICL is implanted behind the iris (the colored part of the lens).
Can the EVO Visian ICL Lens be Removed?
The EVO Visian ICL lens can be removed, although it is intended for permanent vision correction.
Will I be able to feel the EVO Visian ICL Lens?
Once the ICL lens is placed, patients will not feel it since it does not touch the internal structures of the eye.
Will other people be able to see the EVO Visian ICL Lens?
The Visian EVO lens is placed behind your iris where it cannot be seen by anyone except your eye doctor at an eye examination.
Are there any risks with the EVO Visian ICL Procedure?
Any medical procedure has potential risks, although the potential complications of the EVO ICL procedure are rare. Some of these possible risks include inflammation, increased eye pressure, or the need for an ICL exchange to replace the lens.
