What Are Implantable Contact Lenses – ICLs?

Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) are advanced, biocompatible lenses designed to correct vision without altering the cornea’s shape. Unlike traditional contact lenses, ICLs are implanted inside the eye, sitting behind the iris and in front of the natural lens, providing sharp, high-definition vision. They offer a long-term solution for myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, making them an excellent alternative for individuals who may not be suitable for laser eye surgery. Because ICLs are removable and do not cause permanent changes to the eye, they provide a reversible, flexible vision correction option. Ideal for those seeking clear vision without dependence on glasses or daily contact lenses, ICLs deliver exceptional visual quality while preserving the eye’s natural structure.

No More Glasses Or Contact Lenses

Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses by providing sharp, natural vision at all distances. Unlike traditional vision correction methods, ICLs work from within the eye, sitting behind the iris to correct refractive errors such as myopia and astigmatism without altering the cornea. These advanced lenses offer a long-term solution for those seeking freedom from eyewear, delivering high-definition vision without the dryness or discomfort associated with contact lenses. Ideal for individuals who may not be candidates for laser eye surgery, ICLs provide exceptional clarity with a reversible, maintenance-free alternative to daily corrective lenses.

Recovery And Aftercare

Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is a straightforward outpatient procedure, typically completed within 20-30 minutes. Recovery begins immediately, with no need for stitches or eye patches, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. A slight sensation in the eye, mild irritation, or light sensitivity is common in the first few hours but quickly subsides with prescribed anti-inflammatory and lubricating eye drops.

While vision may initially appear slightly blurry or fluctuating, this is temporary as the eyes adjust to the new lens. Over the following weeks, clarity will continue to improve, allowing patients to read, use screens, and see at a distance with ease. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure a smooth recovery and optimal visual outcomes.

Who Is ICLs For?

Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) are ideal for individuals seeking sharp, high-definition vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. They are particularly beneficial for adults under 40 with moderate to severe myopia or astigmatism, especially those who may not be suitable for laser eye surgery due to thin corneas or dry eyes. Perfect for active lifestyles, ICLs offer exceptional clarity for activities like swimming, sports, traveling, and daily work without the hassle of corrective eyewear. With a quick recovery time and a long-lasting, reversible solution, ICLs provide the freedom to enjoy life with natural, effortless vision.

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Treatment Steps

The process of receiving Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) is a straightforward and precise procedure designed to provide sharp, high-definition vision without altering the eye’s natural structure. From the initial consultation to full recovery, each step is carefully planned to ensure optimal results, minimal downtime, and long-term visual clarity. Here’s what to expect during your ICL treatment journey.

The Procedure

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Preparing The Eye

This outpatient procedure typically lasts 10 minutes per eye. Eye drop anesthetics create a pain free procedure. The eye is opened with a key-hole incision in the corneal periphery that heals without a suture.

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The implantable contact lens

With ICL, each patient receives a tailor-made artificial biopolymer lens implant that has lifetime durability. The ICL lens is flexible and foldable like a contact lens and is inserted into the eye in a matter of seconds with an injector through the small corneal incision.

Implantation Of The ICL

The ICL is positioned in the posterior chamber of the eye between the iris and natural lens. It remains there permanently and is neither visible nor perceptible. The custom made ICL collamer® lens together with the natural lens redirect the light to focus on the retina with optical precision.

The Invisible Lens – ICL

For those with severe myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or thin corneas, laser eye surgery may not be an option—but glasses aren’t the only solution. Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) offer a permanent yet reversible alternative, providing sharp, high-definition vision without altering the eye’s natural structure.

Placed between the iris and the natural lens, ICLs work with your eye to focus light correctly on the retina, restoring clear vision. This safe and proven procedure has been used for over 25 years, making it an excellent choice for those with a prescription above -8D (myopia) or +3D (hyperopia), even when combined with astigmatism.

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Advantages of ICLs

Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs) are a cutting-edge vision correction solution, offering sharp, high-definition vision, a quick recovery, and long-term clarity. Here are eight key benefits you can expect after your procedure.

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UV Protection

  • Leaves the Cornea Intact – Unlike laser eye surgery, ICLs do not remove corneal tissue, preserving the eye’s natural structure.

  • Avoids Dry Eyes – Since ICLs do not reshape the cornea, they do not disrupt tear production, making them an ideal choice for those prone to dry eyes.

  • UV Protection – The Collamer material used in ICLs naturally filters harmful UV rays, offering additional protection for your eyes.

  • Reversible Procedure – ICLs can be removed or replaced if necessary, providing a flexible and adjustable vision correction option.

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High Definition Vision

  • Exceptional Night Vision – Unlike some laser procedures, ICLs maintain excellent contrast sensitivity, reducing glare and halos in low-light conditions.

  • High-Definition Vision – ICLs provide crisp, clear, and sharp vision, often surpassing the quality achieved with glasses or contact lenses.

  • Quick Recovery – Most patients experience a fast, comfortable recovery.

  • Suitable for High Prescriptions – ICLs effectively correct severe myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

Real Stories From Our ICL Patients

Hundreds of patients across South Wales have transformed their vision with Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs), achieving sharp, high-definition sight without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Here are real stories from those who have embraced a life of visual freedom!

“Getting ICLs was the best decision I’ve ever made. My vision is crystal clear, and I no longer have to worry about glasses or dry eyes from contact lenses. The procedure was quick, and my recovery was effortless!”

Mark T. / Cardiff

“After years of struggling with severe myopia, I finally found a solution with ICLs. My vision is now better than it ever was with glasses or contacts, and I love the freedom it’s given me!”

Sophie L. / Swansea

“I was told I wasn’t a candidate for laser eye surgery due to my thin corneas, but ICLs changed everything. The difference in my vision is incredible—it’s like seeing the world in high definition!”

James R. / Newport

“I used to rely on glasses for everything, but now I wake up with perfect vision thanks to ICLs. The procedure was smooth, recovery was fast, and I’d recommend it to anyone considering a permanent vision correction solution.”

Emily D. / Bridgend

“I never thought I’d be able to ditch my glasses, but ICLs made it possible. The clarity is unreal, and I no longer worry about dry or irritated eyes from contacts. Absolutely life-changing!”

Daniel W. / Llanelli

“ICLs have completely transformed my vision. From work to sports and travel, I no longer have to deal with the hassle of glasses or contacts. I only wish I had done this sooner!”

Bethan G. / Pembroke

FAQs About ICLs

Below, we answer some of the most common questions about ICLs to help you understand if this advanced vision correction procedure is right for you.

ICLs are thin, biocompatible lenses implanted inside the eye, positioned behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. They work by correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, providing clear, high-definition vision without removing corneal tissue.

ICLs are ideal for individuals aged 21 to 45 with moderate to severe myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, especially those not suitable for laser eye surgery due to thin corneas or dry eyes.

Unlike LASIK or LASEK, ICLs do not reshape the cornea. Instead, they are implanted inside the eye, making them a reversible and less invasive alternative for vision correction.

The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes per eye and is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients experience improved vision immediately or within a few hours after surgery.

No, the procedure is virtually painless. Local anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, and patients may feel mild pressure but no discomfort during the procedure.

Most patients resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, with full recovery in a few weeks. Vision improvement is often noticeable immediately after surgery.

Yes! ICLs are completely reversible. If necessary, they can be removed or replaced, offering a flexible vision correction solution.

Yes, ICLs contain built-in UV protection, helping to shield the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays while maintaining clear vision.

As with any eye surgery, there is a small risk of infection, glare, or halos. However, ICLs have a high safety record and minimal risk of complications when performed by an experienced surgeon.

ICLs are designed to last a lifetime. They do not degrade over time and provide long-term vision correction without maintenance.