There are various methods or ways to correct a vision problem or condition: eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgeries such as LASIK. A lesser-known alternative, however, is gaining traction with surgeons: Implantable Contact Lens surgery. But as with any medical procedure, safety will always be a priority. If you’re considering ICL surgery, make sure that you understand both its risks and benefits. In this blog, we discuss ICL surgery from a safety point of view so that you will make an informed decision.

What Is ICL Surgery?

Implantable Contact Lens surgery-or ICL-is a refractive eye surgery for correcting vision to handle myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea, ICL involves implanting a small, flexible lens inside the eye to help focus light correctly onto the retina.

How does ICL surgery work?

Surgery of ICL includes a phakic intraocular lens insertion within the eye. This lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens and behind the iris. This surgery is performed under local anesthesia by making a tiny ‘keyhole’ incision in the cornea to insert the lens. It is meant to remain within permanently. These lenses can be removed if needed or exchanged.

Benefits of ICL Surgery

ICL surgery is Highly Precise and effective in treating vision conditions. A range of vision conditions including severe refractive errors which cannot be treated with LASIK or other refractive surgery, is operated on.

• Unlike LASIK, which permanently changes the cornea, ICL surgery is reversible. The lens can be removed if needed or exchanged. This may make it a more flexible option in some patients’ eyes.
• ICLs can be highly effective for high levels of myopia or hyperopia, especially when LASIK is not an option due to corneal thickness or other factors.
• ICL surgery may be more appropriate for patients with thin corneas or other problems with the cornea because it does not reshape the cornea.

Some patients have fewer dry eye issues than LASIK, as the nerves of the cornea remain intact during this procedure.

What are the Risks and Complications of ICL Surgery?

• Infection: As with any other surgical intervention, there is a risk of infection. This can be minimized by proper pre-operative care and post-operative hygiene.
• Increase in Intraocular Pressure: There is the risk that the ICL might increase the intraocular pressure and lead to glaucoma. Regular monitoring and follow-up are necessary to manage the ICL surgery side effects and risks.
• Visual Disturbances: Glare, halos, or decreased night vision can occur because some lenses contain high minus power. These are usually temporary but can annoy some individuals.
• Lens Dislocation: The ICL can dislocate from the intended position. This may sometimes need additional surgery to reposition or replace the lens.
• Loss of Endothelial Cells: The procedure might be horrific for the corneal endothelium and could have long-term after-effects, such as corneal edema or loss of corneal cells. For that matter, regular follow-up with the eye physician would be mandatory.
• Biological Compatibility: Not every patient will be eligible for ICL surgery. Individuals with specific eyeground disorders or anatomic contraindications do not have good results and face higher risks.

Assessing Your Candidacy

Pre-ICL surgery requires a comprehensive eye check-up. In this, an eye surgeon evaluates the overall eye health, the cornea shape, and general medical history to see if you are a good candidate for ICL. Age, prescription stability, and pre-existing general eye conditions will be considered.

Post-Operational Care

Follow-up care after surgery is crucial for the success of the ICL. This typically includes:

• Follow-up Visits: Regular visits to the eye surgeon to monitor the post-surgical healing and adjustment of medications in some cases.
• Medications: Proper use of prescribed eye drops-infection prevention and inflammation reduction.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid certain activities to allow proper healing.

ICL Surgery Success Rate

ICL surgery is very successful, over 95% of all patients can achieve 20/40 vision or better, and many people go on to see 20/20. This surgery is also highly safe and carries a low risk of serious complications; most people are satisfied with the outcome. With this surgery, most people usually end up with their vision very much improved and their reliance on glasses or contact lenses substantially reduced. Results might be varied since it is a surgical alternative. It is best to see an experienced ophthalmologist who will advise on a case-by-case basis.

Conclusion

ICL surgery is a viable alternative to other vision correction surgery. While these procedures are generally safe and effective, it is critical to weigh the risks versus benefits of each and discuss those risks and benefits with a qualified eye surgeon. This way, understanding the possible ICL surgery complications and following instructions about post-operative care can maximize a patient’s chances for excellent visual outcomes.

If you are considering ICL surgery, it is advisable to take some time and speak to an eye care professional from the best eye hospital for ICL who can give advice on a personal basis and allow you to make the best decision based on your needs and situation.

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Written and Verified by:

DR. RAJA AGARWAL

MBBS, MS (OPHTHALMOLOGIST) FICS (USA)

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