Implantable Contact Lens
Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) are synthetic collamer lenses that work with the eye to improve your vision. They are inserted between the iris and the natural lens through a tiny incision. The collamer lens contains collagen (which naturally occurs in the human body), and also provides UV protection.
Who Might Benefit From ICL
It is a great option for patients who are non-candidates for LASIK, PRK, or other vision correction procedures because of high myopic prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eyes.
ICL is recommended for patients 21 to 45 years of age, near sighted with myopia between -3.0 and -18.0, and is available for patients with astigmatism.
What ICL Entails
The ICL procedure generally takes about 15 minutes per eye. It is performed on an outpatient basis, under topical anesthesia.
Your Edmonton refractive eye surgeon makes an incision in the cornea then places the clear collamer lens implant between the iris and natural lens. The ICL works with the natural lens to improve vision after surgery. The procedure can greatly reduce your need for glasses or contact lenses and may eliminate your dependence on them altogether.
What to Expect After ICL
It can take up to several weeks for you to notice the final visual results of ICL. As your eyes heal, you may feel a “scratchy” sensation in the eyes. You may also notice blurred vision, glare, halos or other visual disturbances during this time.
You should be able to go back to work or resume your normal activities about a week after your procedure. Your eye surgeon will let you know when you can return to your usual schedule.
Once your eyes are healed, you should not feel the ICL, in the same way that you should not notice a dental filling. The ICL is intended to remain in place without the need for maintenance, but may be removed if needed for cataract surgery in the future.
Find out More About ICL
If you have been diagnosed with high myopia, or if you have been told that you are not a suitable candidate for laser vision correction surgery or PRK, you might benefit from ICL treatment.
To schedule a complimentary assessment with an Eye Q optometrist to learn more about implantable contact lens and determine whether ICL is right for you, contact Eye Q Premium Laser by calling 780-429-2015 today.