Freedom from glasses starts here.
An implantable collamer lens (ICL), also known as an implantable contact lens, is a vision correction lens implant that is implanted into the eye to correct short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. It functions exactly like a contact lens, except that it is surgically implanted into the eye. Unlike a contact lens, an ICL does not require any maintenance, and it cannot be seen or felt once implanted in the eye.
To be a suitable candidate, you should:
Implantable collamer lenses (ICLs) are a good alternative for patients who are not suitable for LASIK or other refractive procedures. ICLs can correct a wide range of refractive errors and are therefore commonly recommended to patients with high prescriptions that cannot be safely treated with laser eye surgery.
ICLs can treat the following refractive errors:
Implantable collamer lenses are made of a proprietary material that contains a small amount of collagen which occurs naturally in your body, thereby making it biocompatible with the eye. The lens also contains an ultraviolet light filter to provide natural UV protection.
ICL surgery takes 20-30 minutes per eye and is performed under local anaesthetic. A small opening is made in the periphery of the cornea to allow the ICL to be introduced into the eye through an injector. Once inside the eye, the lens unfolds and is positioned behind the iris. The small opening is self-sealing and does not require any sutures.
Visual recovery is fast and most patients are able to see very well by the next day. Your vision will continue to improve as the eye heals and settles down over the first few weeks following ICL surgery
ICL is designed to deliver strong visual outcomes in appropriate candidates, but it is important to set realistic expectations and understand long-term factors.PresbyMAX is one of several ways to manage presbyopia. The best option depends on your eyes, your goals, and how you feel about different trade-offs.
The goal is sharp, stable vision with reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Some people still choose to use glasses for specific tasks, but many achieve meaningful day-to-day freedom from corrective eyewear.
Some people notice halos or glare, particularly in dim lighting. This is assessed before surgery by looking at pupil size, prescription, and your visual needs. If night driving is a major part of your life, that should be discussed during planning so expectations are clear.
Even with excellent distance vision after ICL, vision can change with age. Many people will still need reading glasses later due to normal age-related focusing changes. Cataracts can also develop later in life because that is part of ageing. If cataracts develop, the ICL can be removed at the time of cataract surgery if required.
Choosing the right setting for ICL is about careful assessment and a safety-first approach, not just the procedure day.
ICL is only recommended when measurements and eye health checks support a safe outcome. Screening includes anatomical safety checks, pressure risk assessment, and a close look at the retina when myopia is higher.
Lens selection, sizing accuracy, and surgical technique all matter. Your surgeon will explain why a particular plan is being recommended, what the main risks are for your eyes specifically, and how those risks are managed.
The difference between ICL and LASIK is that ICL corrects vision by implanting a lens inside the eye while LASIK corrects vision by creating a corneal flap and reshaping corneal tissue with a laser.
Yes. Toric ICL options are designed to correct astigmatism, but careful measurement and alignment are important.
Do not drive on the day of surgery. You can drive again once your vision is safe and you have been cleared at follow-up. This timing varies between patients.
Freedom from glasses starts here.
ICL can correct a range of common refractive errors, including:
The range that can be treated depends on eye measurements and individual anatomy, which is why the assessment phase matters.
People often consider ICL because:
If you are comparing options, it can help to review the broader category of procedures here: laser eye surgery.
Your surgeon will assess several factors to confirm safety and suitability, including:
ICL may not be recommended in situations such as:
ICL vs LASIK
ICL vs SmartSight and PRK
Who is more likely to develop glaucoma
Which option is “best”
Before ICL surgery, your assessment commonly includes:
This is also the time to discuss any history of dry eye, inflammation, or previous surgery.
If you wear contact lenses, you will usually need a contact lens “washout” period before key measurements. The timing depends on the type of lenses you wear. We will provide clinic-specific guidance.
ICL outcomes rely heavily on accurate measurements. It is where safety is confirmed and the lens size and power are selected.
ICL sizing is based on detailed eye measurements, which typically include:
These measurements help choose a lens that sits securely and avoids crowding inside the eye.
Step-by-step overview of the procedure
ICL surgery typically involves:
Many clinics treat one eye at a time to support safe recovery and clear monitoring.
How long the procedure takes
Is ICL surgery painful
First 24 to 72 Hours
In the first few days, it is common to experience:
You will use prescribed drops, and will be asked to wear an eye shield at night for protection. Avoid rubbing the eye.
The First Week
Many people return to routine tasks within days, but you should follow your surgeon’s guidance on:
Follow-Up Schedule
Follow-up visits are essential. They are used to:
Skipping follow-up appointments increases risk, especially in the early phase after surgery.
Visual outcomes and stability
Night vision and halos
Long-term considerations
To book an assessment, contact the clinic and request an ICL suitability consultation. It helps to bring:
Rediscover clearer vision
Loacation: G11-12/566 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004
Phone: (03) 9070 0955
Fax: (03) 9978 9426
E-mail: info@cityeyesurgeons.com.au
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