Permanent Contact Lenses

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Implantable contact lenses (ICLs), also known as phakic IOLs, correct vision in much the same way that external contact lenses do, except ICLs are placed inside the eye where they permanently improve vision. ICLs are also similar to intraocular lenses which are used during cataract surgery to replace the eye’s natural lens. However, during ICL surgery, the natural lens is kept in the eye and works with the implanted lens to correct vision. Permanent contact lenses give those who are not candidates for laser vision correction an option for permanent vision correction.

Implantable Contact Lenses: ICLs

Implantable contact lenses are inserted through a small incision in the cornea and placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. These thin, pliable lenses can be an alternative to LASIK surgery and are used to correct conditions that laser surgery may be unable to correct, such as extreme myopia (nearsightedness). The ICL procedure is virtually pain free and has a 95 percent success rate.

Verisyse™

The Verisyse™ phakic intraocular lens is often an option for those with moderate to severe myopia who are not candidates for LASIK. Unlike other ICLs, the Verisyse™ lens is placed in front of the iris, and the natural lens is left in the eye, allowing for uninterrupted focusing ability. Learn more about the Verisyse™ phakic intraocular lens.

Visian ICL™

The Visian ICL™ is made from Collamer®, a collagen co-polymer, specially designed for biocompatibility by STAAR® Surgical. The Visian ICL™ is foldable, allowing for insertion through a very small incision. It is placed behind the iris and works with the existing natural lens to correct vision. Learn more about Visian ICL™.

Types of ICLs

The main difference in implantable contact lenses is the type of material used to make each ICL. There are only two types of ICLs approved for use in the United States today: Verisyse™ made of a type of acrylic called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and Visian ICL™ made from STAAR® Surgical’s blend of collagen and copolymer called Collamer®. Learn more about implantable contact lens types.

The ICL Procedure

The outpatient procedure to place implantable contact lenses is performed in less than 30 minutes, recovery time is relatively short, and pain is minor. The lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens through a small incision in the cornea. Improved vision is often noticed the same day as surgery, and patients fully heal within a month. Learn more about the ICL eye surgery procedure.

Am I a Candidate?

Typically, the best candidates for implantable contact lenses are between the ages of 21 and 45, with moderate to severe myopia. ICLs are designed for those patients who are not good candidates for LASIK vision correction. Learn more about candidate requirements for implantable contact lenses.

Additional ICL Information — FAQs

We have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about implantable contact lenses. Learn the difference between ICLs and IOLs, the benefits of implantable lenses, and more. Learn more about implantable contact lenses with our ICL FAQs.

Benefits of Implantable Contact Lenses

Implantable contact lenses have many benefits over other types of vision correction. They can permanently improve the vision of those with moderate to severe nearsightedness by working with the eye’s natural lens. And unlike LASIK vision correction, the procedure is completely reversible. Learn more about the benefits of implantable contact lenses.

Risks of Implantable Contact Lenses

No surgical procedure is without risk, however, rarely do patients experience complications with implantable contact lenses. When complications do occur, they are typically minor. Learn more about ICL risks.

How Do I Choose an ICL Surgeon?

It is important to choose a qualified and experienced ICL surgeon for optimal results. You should choose a surgeon who has a solid reputation and is willing take the time to address your questions and concerns about implantable contact lenses. Learn more about how to choose an ICL surgeon.

Cost of Implantable Contact Lenses

The cost of implantable contact lenses depends greatly on the surgeon you choose and the area of the country in which your procedure is performed. In general, it costs several thousand dollars per eye for the surgery. However, many ophthalmologists offer financing plans to help you pay for the procedure. Learn more about implantable contact lens cost.

Find a Doctor through DocShop

If you are not a candidate for LASIK, implantable contact lenses now offer you a permanent vision correction method. It is important to find an experienced surgeon for your ICL procedure. Through DocShop, you can find an ophthalmologist in your area who is experienced in ICL surgery.