Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
Eye Surgery
What is ICL?
The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is an advanced, thin, clear lens that functions similarly to a contact lens, however it is surgically implanted into the eye. The ICL cannot be felt while in the eye, requires no maintenance and can be removed if needed. The ICL does not replace your natural lens, but is implanted in front of your natural lens and behind your iris (the coloured part of the eye).
The ICL procedure is a low risk, long-term solution and, as such, is a good option for many patients, especially those under the age of 40. The procedure is often recommended for patients with high prescriptions for either short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia), because often the cornea is not thick enough to be treated safely with laser eye surgery procedures such as LASIK or PRK.
The procedure is a permanent one – or until you decide that you may want to remove it. The ICL has the advantage of being reversible.
The ICL is specifically manufactured to correct your prescription and its strength is determined after a thorough series of measurements at our clinic.
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Justin Sherwin is passionate about matching your lifestyle to your visual requirements. He offers all lens-based refractive solutions including blended-vision (monovision) and the latest premium intraocular lenses (extended depth of focus and multifocal intraocular lenses), designed to increase spectacle independence.
Benefits of ICL Surgery
The key benefits of ICL include:
- It is a low-risk and permanent solution
- The lens cannot be felt while in the eye
- No maintenance is required
- The lens can be removed if required – reversible procedure
Learn more about ICL
ICL surgery may be suitable for patients who:
- Currently wear uncomfortable or heavy glasses
- Struggle with wearing contact lenses
- Are unsuitable for laser eye surgery such as LASIK or PRK
The ICL procedure is used to treat short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. If you are over the age of 18 years, have stable vision and healthy eyes then ICL surgery could be the right solution for you.
The ideal ICL candidate has not had any ophthalmic surgery and does not have a history of eye disease such as iritis, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.
Your ICL procedure will performed by Dr Justin Sherwin at a Day Procedure Centre in Camberwell, Melbourne. After you have been admitted, you will meet with your anaesthetist who will discuss aspects of your general health and the procedure with you.
You will be given sedation to make you relaxed during the procedure and the anaesthetist will ensure you are comfortable throughout.
Anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye and Dr Sherwin will place a small instrument between your eyelids to prevent blinking. You may notice some bright lights from the microscope but you will not see the procedure as it happens.
The customised lens is folded into a special injector and Dr Sherwin will make a small opening through which he will insert the ICL. Once inside the eye, the ICL will unfold and be positioned. The opening then seals on its own; usually without the need for stitches.
You only spend 20 to 30 minutes in the theatre but will be at the Day Procedure Centre for 2-3 hours. You will need to have someone collect you and stay with you at home afterwards while you recover.
Usually the eyes are treated a minimum of one week apart.
The risks are rare and often only minor if they occur. ICL surgery is a safe procedure, but like all surgical or medical procedures there is always a risk of complication. All known complications will be discussed at your consultation.
Schedule your initial consultation today
Come in to learn all about vision correction and for your comprehensive eye examination to assess your eligibility.
- Free and no obligation
- Mon-Thurs & Sat appointments available
- Free parking onsite
- Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, filtered water and biscuits