What is refractive surgery with ICL intraocular lenses?
Laser refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK) can correct most cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. However, some cases cannot be treated with this technique.
In these cases you may be an ideal candidate for ICL intraocular lens implantation. ICL lenses are made of collamer, a biocompatible material that provides high quality vision without discomfort.
These lenses are placed inside the eye, between the iris and the crystalline lens. They remain in this position indefinitely, without the need to alter any structure in the eye.
When are ICL lenses recommended?
In young people who do not have symptoms of eyestrain (between 21 and 40 years of age) and in whom laser surgery (LASIK, PRK) is contraindicated due to a high prescription, a very thin corneal thickness or who have symptoms of dry eye.
What are the advantages of these lenses?
- Reversible surgery: If surgery produces significant changes in vision, these lenses can be removed and/or replaced.
- High definition vision: Vision is clear and well-defined, superior even to contact lenses in most cases.
- No dry eye: Unlike laser surgery, this technique does not alter the corneal surface.
- 15-20 minute procedure: Outpatient surgery with rapid recovery, most people can resume their daily activities in a few days.
- Aesthetically undetectable: These lenses cannot be seen with the naked eye.
- UV protection: Its material creates a UV barrier while allowing natural light to pass through without altering it.
- Excellent results: Satisfaction in 99% of cases, with a high safety profile and low incidence of complications compared to other techniques.
What does the surgery consist of?
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, with local anesthesia (drops). Through a small incision, the ICL lens is implanted in a space called posterior chamber, which is located between the iris and the crystalline lens. This operation lasts about 20 minutes and does not require sutures, which allows a very fast visual recovery and a postoperative period with little discomfort.
What is the postoperative period like?
Because it is a surgery that does not require sutures and the optical quality of the ICL lens is very good, the recovery is very fast. Normal life can be carried out after the operation, avoiding blows to the eyes. It is normal that there may be halos the first few days, which usually resolve.
For more information about ICL lenses, do not hesitate to contact a specialist in Ophthalmology.