Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
Eye Surgery
What is ICL?
The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a thin, clear lens designed to work like a contact lens, but is surgically placed inside the eye. The ICL sits in front of your natural lens and behind the coloured part of your eye (iris). It cannot be felt once implanted and typically does not require ongoing maintenance. If needed, the ICL can be removed by your surgeon.
ICL may be considered for people with high prescriptions for short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia), especially when the cornea may not be suitable for laser procedures like LASIK or PRK. The lens is specifically manufactured to match your prescription, with measurements taken during your assessment at our clinic.
The decision about whether ICL is suitable for you will be made based on your eye health, vision needs, and the results of a comprehensive examination. Your expected benefits and any potential risks will be discussed during your consultation.
Meet your Surgeon- Dr Justin Sherwin
Dr Justin Sherwin is experienced in a range of lens-based vision correction procedures, including cataract surgery, blended vision (monovision), and the use of intraocular lenses such as extended depth of focus and multifocal lenses. During your assessment, Dr Sherwin will discuss the available options to help you find a vision correction approach that suits your individual needs and lifestyle. Your expected benefits and any potential risks will be explained as part of a personalised treatment plan.
Benefits of ICL Surgery
Key features of the ICL procedure:
• The lens sits inside the eye behind the iris, where it cannot be felt.
• No daily maintenance is required, though regular eye checks are still recommended.
• The lens can be removed by your ophthalmologist if necessary.
ICL is considered a long-term option for vision correction.
Learn more about ICL
ICL surgery may be suitable for patients who:
- Currently wear uncomfortable or heavy glasses
- Struggle with wearing contact lenses
- Are unsuitable for laser eye surgery such as LASIK or PRK
The ICL procedure is used to treat short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. If you are over the age of 18 years, have stable vision and healthy eyes then ICL surgery could be the right solution for you.
The ideal ICL candidate has not had any ophthalmic surgery and does not have a history of eye disease such as iritis, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.
Your ICL procedure will performed by Dr Justin Sherwin at a Day Procedure Centre in Camberwell, Melbourne. After admission, you’ll meet your anaesthetist to discuss your general health and the steps involved.
Sedation is provided to help you feel relaxed, and the anaesthetist will monitor your comfort throughout the procedure. Anaesthetic eye drops are used to numb your eye. A small instrument is placed between your eyelids to prevent blinking.
During the procedure, you may notice some bright lights from the microscope, but you won’t see the details of the surgery.
The customised lens is folded and inserted through a small opening, where it unfolds and is carefully positioned. The opening is designed to close naturally, so stitches are usually not needed.
The procedure itself usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, but expect to be at the Day Procedure Centre for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll need someone to collect you and stay with you at home for the rest of the day.
If both eyes are being treated, they are typically done at least one week apart.
ICL surgery carries potential risks and complications, as with any procedure. We will discuss the likelihood and nature of these risks with you in detail during your consultation.
Schedule your initial consultation today
Come in to learn all about laser eye surgery and for your comprehensive eye examination to assess your eligibility.
- Free and no obligation
- Mon-Thurs & Sat appointments available
- Free parking onsite
- Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, filtered water and biscuits
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