Implantable Collamer Lens

What is an  Implantable Collamer lens?
Implantable Collamer lens is a special lens that is inserted into the eye to correct the refractive error. This eliminates the need for spaectacles and contact lenses and, unlike contact lenses, does not require to be applied and removed.

How is ICL different from a contact lens?
The ICL is made from Collamer™, a hydrophilic, collagen copolymer. This is a highly specialized material which ensures that the lens is thin enough and inert enough to not create any disturbance to the other structures of the eye. Since it is placed inside the eye, this is a one time procedure and there is no daily application and removal, no need for any special care as is with contact lenses.

Who are the candidates for ICL
You are a candidate for ICL if

• You are above 19 years of age
• Your refractive error ( power of glasses) has been stable for 6 months.

The power of your glasses is

Myopia more than -3D upto 20D
Hypermetropia more than +2D to + 10D
Astigmatism upto +  4D 

• Even if you are unfit for LASIK due to abnormal corneal curvature or thin cornea




How does one prepare for the procedure?
First a complete evaluation is done to determine suitability. Once the patient has been found suitable, a preparatory Laser iridotomy needs to be done. The actual procedure of ICL insertion can be then scheduled after one week.

What does Laser iridotomy entail?
In this, a small opening is created in the iris by using YAG laser. This is an OPD procedure and takes 10-15mins. Eyedrops are then prescribed for a week. This procedure should be done at least 1 week before the ICL implantation.

Is the procedure of ICL implantation painful?
No, it is not. This procedure is done in the operation theatre, under topical ansthesia. Eye drops are applied to anasthetise the eye, a micro-incision is made in the cornea and then the lens is inserted. The procedure takes around 10 mins.

Are both eyes done together?
Usually both eyes are not done on the same day. There is a gap of one or two days or even more depending on the patient.

Is ICL a risky procedure?
We take a lot of precautions to ensure that it is not risky.The ICL is custom made for the patient taking all the specific  parameters into consideration. It is made of a very quality ensuring that it doesn’t cause any irritation to any of the other parts of the eye. Iridotmy is done in all cases  to prevent pupillary block and glaucoma. In the remote case of the ICL not suiting or causing reaction in the eye, it can be taken out very easily.