Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs), often referred to as phakic intraocular lenses (phakic IOLs), are a type of vision correction surgery for people who are nearsighted (myopic), farsighted (hyperopic), or have astigmatism—especially those who may not be good candidates for LASIK or PRK.
🧬 What is a Collamer Lens?
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Collamer is a proprietary biocompatible material made from collagen and a copolymer.
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It is flexible, soft, and designed to work harmoniously with the eye’s natural structures.
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The most well-known ICL is the Visian ICL, made by STAAR Surgical.
👁️ How ICLs Work:
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The lens is surgically implanted inside the eye, between the iris and the natural crystalline lens.
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Unlike cataract surgery, your natural lens is left in place—hence the term phakic.
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The ICL adds a corrective lens to the eye, functioning similarly to a contact lens but from inside.
✅ Benefits:
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High-quality vision, often with better contrast and sharpness than LASIK.
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Reversible — the lens can be removed or replaced if needed.
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UV protection is built into the lens.
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Good for high prescriptions, especially extreme myopia or thin corneas.
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No dry eye issues, a common LASIK side effect.
⚠️ Risks and Considerations:
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Intraocular surgery risks, such as infection, inflammation, or increased intraocular pressure.
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Cataract development — rare, but possible over time.
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Halos and glare — especially in low light, though modern ICLs have improved.
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Cost — more expensive than LASIK or PRK, and not usually covered by insurance.
🧑⚕️ Who is a Good Candidate?
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Ages 21 to 45, with stable vision.
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Moderate to severe myopia (typically -3.00 D to -20.00 D).
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People not eligible for corneal refractive surgery due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or irregular astigmatism.
🕐 The Procedure:
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Surgery is quick, often 10–20 minutes per eye.
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Recovery is fast — many patients return to normal activities in a day or two.
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Vision typically stabilizes within a week.