Category Archives for ICL FAQs |
Are there risks to ICL implantation?
No surgical procedure is risk-free. There are potential complications associated with the surgery itself. These include: irritation of the conjunctiva, corneal swelling, eye infection, non-reactive pupil and irritation of the iris. In the vast majority of cases, these complications are short term, transient in nature, and will be treated by the doctor performing the surgery. […]
What should I expect if I eventually require cataract surgery and I have an ICL?
Many patients who developed cataracts years after they had a cornea refractive procedure (LASIK, PRK, RK) have had successful cataract surgery and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation with good results. However, the required implant power is more challenging to predict because the modified corneal curvature cannot be accurately measured. Further, the optics of the combination (modified cornea with an IOL) are generally not as optimal […]
If I receive an ICL will I always remain free of corrective lenses?
In patients with myopia of -3.0 to -15.0 Diopters (D), the vast majority do not require corrective lenses after ICL implantation. However, in patients with extreme myopia, -15 to -20 D or higher (“Coke-bottle” spectacles), use of corrective lens after ICL implantation may be necessary to correct any residual refractive error. In either case, complete independence from […]
Can I feel the ICL once it is in place?
The ICL is not noticeable after it is implanted. It does not attach to any structures within the eye and does not move around after it is in position.
Can the ICL dry out or become soiled or damaged like a contact lens?
No. The ICL is designed to remain in place within the eye without maintenance. We recommend an annual eye examination to make sure that everything is fine.
Can both eyes be implanted with an ICL at once? If not, how long must I wait before surgery is performed on the second eye?
One eye is operated on at a time. The second eye may be implanted with the ICL later the same day, the next day, or a week or more after the first. In the interim, you can generally continue contact lens wear in your untreated eye, if applicable. Your doctor will help you decide which strategy […]
What preparation is required?
A tiny hole in the iris is made with a laser prior to the ICL procedure to prevent a serious form of intraocular pressure increase or Glaucoma from developing. Drs. Erdey and Kaswinkel prefer to make this iris hole surgically at the same time as the ICL implant, thus avoiding the laser technique entirely.
What will it accomplish?
The Visian ICL™ may reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. In a clinical study of 294 patients implanted with the Visian ICL™, 95 percent had 20/40 or better vision (considered standard vision necessary to obtain a driver’s license), and 59 percent had 20/20 or better after three years.
What are the U.S. FDA indications for the ICL?
The Visian ICL™ was U.S. FDA approved in December 2005. It is intended for use in adults with healthy eyes and stable spectacle and / or contact lens prescriptions. It is designed for: · The correction of myopia ranging from -3 to -15 diopters (D) with less than or equal to 2.5D of astigmatism at […]
Who are the best candidates for the ICL and is the ICL better than Laser Vision Correction (LASIK / PRK)?
Deciding on the vision correction procedure that’s right for you is an important one. The VISIAN ICL/LASIK/PRK COMPARISON – (Printable PDF) provides a general comparison of the major differences between the Visian ICL, LASIK and PRK. It is NOT an exhaustive list, nor is it a substitute for the advice of your doctor. ONLY AN EXTENSIVE EXAMINATION BY […]