ICL / IPCL
Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) and Implantable Phakic Contact Lenses (IPCL) are advanced vision correction options for individuals who are not suitable candidates for laser eye surgeries like LASIK or SMILE. Both procedures involve implanting a lens inside the eye to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens):
- How ICL Works:
- Preparation: The eye is numbed using anesthetic drops to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
- Lens Insertion: A small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. The ICL, which is a soft, flexible lens made from a biocompatible material called Collamer, is inserted through this incision. The lens is positioned behind the iris and in front of the eye's natural lens.
- Final Adjustments: The surgeon ensures the ICL is properly positioned. The incision typically heals on its own without the need for stitches.
- Benefits of ICL:
- High-Quality Vision: Provides excellent visual clarity and contrast sensitivity, similar to the natural lens.
- Reversible: The procedure is reversible if necessary; the lens can be removed or replaced.
- UV Protection: The Collamer material has built-in UV protection.
- Suitable for High Prescriptions: Effective for individuals with high degrees of myopia or hyperopia that cannot be corrected with laser surgery.
- Preserves Corneal Tissue: Does not involve reshaping the cornea, preserving its natural structure.
IPCL (Implantable Phakic Contact Lens):
- How IPCL Works:
- Preparation: Similar to ICL, the eye is numbed with anesthetic drops.
- Lens Insertion: A small incision is made, and the IPCL, made from a biocompatible material, is inserted. The lens is placed in the anterior chamber of the eye, in front of the natural lens and behind the iris.
- Final Adjustments: The surgeon ensures proper positioning of the IPCL. The small incision heals naturally.
- Benefits of IPCL:
- High-Quality Vision: Provides excellent vision correction, especially for high refractive errors.
- Reversible: The procedure is reversible, allowing for removal or replacement of the lens.
- UV Protection: Often designed with UV-blocking properties.
- Versatility: Can correct a wide range of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
- Preserves Corneal Tissue: Similar to ICL, the natural corneal structure remains unchanged.
Common Benefits of ICL and IPCL:
- Minimally Invasive: Both procedures involve small incisions and quick recovery times.
- Reduced Risk of Dry Eyes: Since the cornea is not reshaped, the risk of postoperative dry eye syndrome is lower compared to laser surgeries.
- Suitable for Thin Corneas: Ideal for patients with thin corneas or other conditions that make them unsuitable for LASIK or other laser surgeries.
- Immediate Vision Improvement: Many patients experience significant improvement in vision almost immediately after the procedure.
