Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

If laser eye surgery isn’t right for you, then lens implants or replacements might be.

Lens not Lasers?

This is a lens implanted in your eye – without taking the natural lens out, for short and long-sighted, and astigmatism vision correction. There are two types of implantable lens – one goes in front of the pupil and is called an Artisan or Verysise lens. The other is the Visian ICL and is implanted behind the pupil. Both are made of synthetic memory polymer material, just like a contact lens, and both feel just as at home in your eyes too.

Toric lens implants

Toric lenses are a great choice of lens implant if you have astigmatism and want to reduce or eliminate the effect of astigmatism (blurring) on your vision.

Toric implants can be used for patients who have cataracts, or who need to wear glasses all the time, and are interested in vision correction. It’s possible for standard or multifocal lens implants to also act as toric implants. This corrects astigmatism at the same time as treating long or short-sightedness.

Toric lenses work by counteracting the effects of astigmatism. Just like the astigmatic cornea, they have a rugby ball shaped lens surface that is positioned by the surgeon inside the eye so it cancels out the effect of the rugby ball shaped corneal surface.

Preparing you for Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

If laser eye surgery to correct your vision isn’t for you, implantable lens surgery is an effective alternative. It’s a safe and simple procedure, where a surgeon adds a permanent synthetic lens to your eye, to boost the existing lens. It can help to improve your eyesight if you are short-sighted, long-sighted or have an astigmatism. Think of it as wearing contact lenses to give you clear vision, but without the hassle of having to take them in or out.

Benefits of Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

What is involved in the procedure?

You’ll be given eye drops to dilate the pupil of your eye, followed by anaesthetic drops. Once those have taken effect, one of our surgeons will make a tiny cut in your eye, and apply a permanent second lens in front of or behind your natural lens.

How long does the procedure take?

Implantable lens surgery takes approximately 10 minutes.

Will I feel pain during the procedure?

You will be given an anaesthetic before your procedure, so shouldn’t feel any pain during it.

How long will I take to recover?

The recovery period varies from person to person, but it’s usually two to four weeks. You will likely feel some mild discomfort and sensitivity straight after your surgery. We recommend rest and avoiding anything strenuous for the first few says. You’ll be given eye drops to prevent infection and reduce any inflammation.

When will I start to feel the benefits of my implantable lens surgery?

Your vision should gradually start to improve during the first week, as your vision starts to stabilise.

Embark on your journey with Laser Vision Scotland

Rest assured, you’re in capable hands every step of the way. Book an appointment and let’s make your dreams a reality.