Visian ICL

Advantages of the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)

1. Ultra-thin and flexible material. The ICL is extremely thin and flexible, allowing it to be folded and inserted through a very small corneal incision without causing tissue damage. The procedure takes only a few seconds. The lens is made of a biocompatible material that does not trigger immune reactions and is gentle on the eye.
2. Comfortable and eye-friendly. The ICL functions similarly to a contact lens, but it is permanently placed inside the eye. Unlike contact lenses, it does not cause dry eyes or corneal irritation.
3. Removable and reversible. The ICL remains permanently in the eye without altering the natural structure of the cornea. If necessary, it can be safely removed or replaced in the future.
4. Suitable for patients not eligible for laser vision correction. ICL is an excellent alternative for patients with high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, as well as those with thin corneas, dry eye conditions, or large pupils.
5. Correction of two refractive errors in one procedure. ICL can correct myopia and astigmatism simultaneously in a single surgical step.
6. High patient satisfaction. ICL provides excellent visual quality and sharpness, resulting in a high level of patient satisfaction.

ICL Surgical Procedure

1. The ophthalmologist administers topical anesthetic eye drops.
2. A small corneal incision of approximately 3 millimeters is made at the edge of the cornea.
3. A viscoelastic substance is injected, and the ICL is gently inserted and positioned in front of the iris.
4. The ICL is placed behind the iris, and the viscoelastic material is carefully removed from the eye.

Suitable Candidates for ICL Surgery

1. Aged 20 to 50 years and have not developed cataracts
2. Have significant refractive errors, such as high myopia or astigmatism
3. Have stable vision (changes no greater than −0.50 diopters within one year)
4. Have thin corneas and are not suitable for PRK, Femto LASIK, or ReLEx SMILE
5. Have sufficient anterior chamber depth
6. Have no history of previous eye surgery
7. Have no other eye diseases, such as glaucoma, uveitis, or diabetic retinopathy
8. Have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the ICL procedure

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Instructions for Patients Undergoing ICL (V4c) Implantation

Before the Preoperative Evaluation

1. Pupil Dilation for Retinal Examination. Your pupils will be dilated during the evaluation, which may temporarily blur your vision and increase light sensitivity. Bring sunglasses to reduce glare. Bring a friend or family member; do not drive yourself, as your vision will be impaired after dilation.
2. Contact Lens Discontinuation. To ensure accurate eye measurements:
   • Soft lenses: stop wearing for at least 7 consecutive days before the evaluation.
   • Semi-hard and hard lenses (RGP): stop wearing for at least 14 consecutive days before the evaluation.
3. Comprehensive Eye Examination. The purpose of the evaluation is to determine whether your eyes are healthy and suitable for safe ICL implantation. An ophthalmologist will review the results and confirm candidacy for the procedure.
4. After the Evaluation. You may resume wearing your contact lenses until the day of surgery

Preoperative Preparation (Before the Surgery Day)

1. You must have no history of Glaucoma, Cataracts and Keratoconus (corneal ectasia)
2. Ideal age range 21–45 years, or as determined by your ophthalmologist, with stable refractive error.
3. If you have chronic medical conditions, inform your doctor so your health can be stabilized before surgery.
4. Patients with hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease may continue their regular medications. However, those taking blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) should discontinue them 7–10 days before surgery, as advised by the doctor.
5. If you experience eye redness, inflammation, or any systemic illness before surgery, consult the ophthalmologist to ensure you are fit for surgery.
6. The day before surgery, shower, shampoo thoroughly, trim nails, and avoid nail polish.
7. On the morning of surgery: Bathe and clean the face, eyebrows, and eyelids thoroughly. Do NOT use facial creams, powder, makeup, or cosmetics, as oil residue can interfere with the procedure.
8. You may eat normally but choose light meals (e.g., porridge, soup, milk). Brush your teeth afterwards. Patients with dentures must remove them before surgery.
9. Bring at least one relative or companion. Avoid bringing valuables. After surgery, an eye shield will be applied to prevent infection and protect the eye.

During the ICL Implantation Procedure

1. Before entering the operating room, you will receive pupil-dilating drops. Lie flat and keep your head still, focusing on the fixation light.
2. The ophthalmologist will administer topical or injectable anesthesia.
3. The doctor will mark the cornea and create a 3.0–3.2 mm incision at the limbus to insert the ICL.
4. If you need to cough, sneeze, or move during surgery, notify the surgeon beforehand.
5. After lens insertion, the doctor will remove the viscoelastic solution from the eye.
6. Antibiotic drops will be instilled, and the eye will be covered with a protective shield.

Possible Postoperative Symptoms

1. Immediately After Surgery. Some patients may experience
   • Excessive tearing, sometimes with nasal congestion
   • Eye irritation or burning sensation
2. The Day After Surgery. Possible symptoms include:
   • Mild redness (These symptoms are generally temporary, usually resolves within 7–14 days)
   • Light sensitivity

Postoperative Care

Postoperative Care Instructions

1. Take medications and use prescribed eye drops exactly as instructed.
2. Resume light daily activities as tolerated.
3. Carefully clean around the eyes, avoiding direct contact with the operated eye.
4. Eat normally, avoid constipation, and continue usual medications for chronic illnesses.
5. Wear the rigid plastic eye shield while sleeping for at least 1 week, or as advised, to prevent accidental rubbing or pressure on the eye.
6. Vision may initially be blurry this is normal. Vision will gradually improve. Use eye drops as prescribed and wash your hands before every instillation.
7. Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from sunlight, wind, dust, and debris.
8. Light exercise (e.g., walking, light chores) is allowed. Resume regular exercise after 1 month.
9. If you experience unusual symptoms eye pain, burning, or decreasing vision contact your doctor promptly.
10. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.

Postoperative Restrictions

1. Do NOT remove the eye shield yourself. The doctor will remove it during the next-day follow-up.
2. Avoid eye rubbing, scratching eyelids, or applying eye makeup for at least 2 weeks.
3. Avoid water entering the eyes: Do NOT wash your face normally for 2 weeks. Use a damp clean cloth to wipe the face carefully. If water accidentally enters the eye, use the prescribed eye drops immediately.
4. Avoid washing your own hair unless done in a reclined position to prevent water splashing into the eyes.
5. No swimming for at least 1 month.
6. Avoid sleeping on the operated side.
7. Avoid heavy lifting and bending with the head below the waist (e.g., picking items from the floor, tying shoes).
8. Avoid prolonged visual tasks; however, reading and watching TV in moderation are acceptable.
9. Avoid dusty, smoky, or polluted environments and heavy house cleaning for at least 1 month.
10. Be cautious around small children and pets, who may unintentionally injure the operated eye.