How Does ICL Surgery Work?

ICL eye surgery involves the insertion of a thin, flexible, and biocompatible collamer lens between the natural lens and iris. The procedure is quick, taking about 20-30 minutes per eye, and does not involve corneal removal. Steps include:

• Pre-operative Assessment

– The surgeon evaluates eye health and measures parameters to select the right lens power.

• Anesthetic Eye Drops

– Used to numb the eyes, ensuring a pain-free experience.

• Small Incision

– A micro-incision is made to insert the lens.

• Lens Implantation

– The ICL lens is placed inside the eye and positioned correctly.

• Healing and Recovery

– The incision heals naturally without the need for stitches.

Who is a Good Candidate for ICL Surgery?

ICL surgery is suitable for:

• Individuals aged between 21-45 years with stable vision.

• Those with high myopia (-3D to -20D) or hyperopia (+3D to +10D).

• Patients with thin corneas, making them ineligible for LASIK or PRK.

• Individuals seeking reversible vision correction without removing corneal tissue.

• Those with dry eye concerns, as ICL surgery does not cause post-surgical dryness.

ICL Surgery Age Limit & Suitability

ICL surgery is best suited for individuals between 21 to 45 years of age. It is essential for the patient’s vision to be stable for at least one year before surgery. Younger patients may still have changing refractive errors, while older patients might have presbyopia or other age-related eye conditions that may not make them ideal candidates for ICL. Consulting an eye specialist can help determine whether ICL surgery is the right option based on individual eye health.

Benefits of ICL Surgery

• Permanent Vision Correction

– Provides long-term clarity without affecting corneal structure.

• High-Definition Vision

– Offers sharper and more natural visual outcomes.

• No Dry Eyes

–Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery does not induce dry eye syndrome.

• Removable Lens

– The lens can be removed or replaced if required.

• UV Protection

– The collamer material in the lens protects the eyes from UV rays.

• Quick Recovery

– Most patients experience improved vision within 24-48 hours.

Why Choose ICL Over LASIK?

While LASIK is a well-known laser vision correction procedure, ICL eye surgery offers key advantages:

• No Corneal Flap Creation

– Reduces risks associated with corneal thinning.

• Ideal for High Refractive Errors

– Works better for individuals with severe myopia.

• Reversible Procedure

– Unlike LASIK, the implantable contact lens can be removed.

• Safe for Thin Corneas

– People with thin corneas who cannot undergo LASIK can opt for ICL.

ICL Surgery Before and After – What to Expect?

Before Surgery

• Comprehensive eye evaluation and lens power selection.
• Pre-surgery instructions, including temporary discontinuation of contact lenses.

After Surgery

• Immediate vision improvement within 24-48 hours.
• Minimal discomfort and quick recovery after ICL surgery.
• Follow-up visits to monitor eye health and vision progress.

ICL Surgery Procedure & Recovery

Step-by-Step ICL Surgery Process

1. Initial Consultation & Eye Measurements – Detailed eye tests are conducted.
2. Surgical Preparation – Anesthetic drops are applied.
3. Lens Implantation – The ICL lens is inserted through a small incision.
4. Post-Surgery Care – Eye drops are prescribed to aid healing.
5. Follow-Up Appointments – Vision improvement is monitored.

Recovery Time After ICL Surgery

• First 24 Hours – Mild discomfort, sensitivity to light, and hazy vision may occur.
• Within 48 Hours – Significant vision improvement is noticeable.
• 1 Week to 1 Month – Full stabilization and adaptation to the new lens.

ICL Surgery Cost & Factors Affecting Pricing

How Much Does ICL Surgery Cost?

The ICL surgery cost varies based on multiple factors, including:

• Hospital location and infrastructure.
• The surgeon’s expertise.
• The type of ICL lens used.

On average, ICL eye surgery cost in India ranges from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,80,000 per eye. However, prices may vary depending on individual cases and requirements. Visit your doctor or consult your doctor for more details and personalized cost estimation.

Potential Risks & Side Effects of ICL Surgery

While ICL surgery is highly safe, potential risks include:

• Glare and Halos

– Some patients may experience night vision disturbances.

• Increased Eye Pressure

– Rare but manageable with medication.

• Cataract Formation

– Long-term monitoring is essential to prevent lens-induced cataracts.

Common Disadvantages of ICL Surgery

• Higher Cost

– Compared to LASIK and PRK, ICL is more expensive.

• Surgical Risks

– Although rare, complications like infection or incorrect lens positioning may occur.

• Not Suitable for Presbyopia

– People above 45 years may need reading glasses post-surgery.

Possible Problems After ICL Surgery

Although rare, some patients may experience:

• Lens Rotation

– Requires repositioning by a doctor.

• Intraocular Pressure Fluctuations

– Managed with medications.

• Night Vision Issues

– Improves as the eyes adapt to the lens.

Is ICL Surgery Safe?

Yes, ICL surgery is FDA-approved and has a long history of successful vision correction. The biocompatible lens does not cause adverse reactions and is designed to last a lifetime.

ICL Surgery vs. Other Eye Treatments

• ICL vs. LASIK

– ICL is better for high myopia, while LASIK is faster and less expensive.

• ICL vs. PRK 

PRK is suitable for mild vision correction, while ICL is preferred for high refractive errors.

Why Choose Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital for ICL Surgery?

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital is a leading provider of ICL surgery in India, offering:

• Advanced Technology

– Advanced diagnostic tools and surgical techniques.

• Expert Surgeons

– Experienced ophthalmologists specializing in vision correction.

• Personalized Treatment

– Customized ICL lens selection for each patient.

• Affordable Pricing

– Competitive costs with financing options.

• Comprehensive Post-Surgery Care

– Follow-ups to ensure long-term success.