Are you sick of depending on glasses or contacts day after day? Have you been weighing the need for a more permanent solution to your vision? Some of our patients at the eye clinic in Calgary are looking at ICL eye surgery as a smart option for sharper, more natural vision.
What is ICL surgery, and how is it distinguished from other vision correction surgeries such as LASIK? Knowing how the surgery operates and its advantages can guide your decision on whether or not it’s perfect for you.
What is ICL eye surgery?
Implantable Collamer Lens surgery involves placing a thin, flexible lens inside the eye, between the iris and your natural lens. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea, ICL does not remove corneal tissue and is reversible if necessary. This procedure is particularly suitable for individuals with high prescriptions or thin corneas who may not be candidates for laser-based surgeries.
How Does ICL Surgery Work?
During the procedure, your ICL surgeon near you makes a small, precise incision in the cornea. The collamer lens is then carefully inserted into the eye. The lens helps your natural lens focus light properly on the retina, fixing nearsightedness, farsightedness, and some types of astigmatism.
What Are the Advantages of ICL Eye Surgery?
ICL eye surgery in Calgary has several benefits that make it desirable for long-term vision correction:
- High-quality vision: Many patients report clearer and sharper vision within hours of recovery.
- Reversibility: The intraocular lens can be taken out or replaced if your vision changes, unlike LASIK.
- UV protection: The Collamer lens prevents dangerous UV rays from entering your eyes.
- Comfort: No tissue is taken from the cornea, and therefore, dry eyes are less frequent than with laser surgery.
What Happens During Recovery?
Understanding what happens after ICL surgery can help your recovery go smoothly.
- Quick vision improvement: Most people notice clearer sight within 1–2 days.
- Mild discomfort: Your eyes may be a little sensitive to light, but it usually gets better quickly.
- Follow-up: Regular check-ups at your eye clinic near you help keep your lenses in place and your eyes healthy.
- Activity limitations: Avoid strenuous activities or swimming for a week to reduce infection risk.
Who is a Suitable Candidate?
ICL surgery may be appropriate for you if
- You are 21–45 years old with a valid prescription.
- Your corneas are thin, or you have high prescriptions that render LASIK inappropriate.
- You are looking for a longer vision correction without taking away corneal tissue.
- Your ICL eye surgeon near you can evaluate your eye health and discuss whether this surgery meets your vision goals.
Book Your Personalized ICL Assessment Today!
Ready to See Clearly? At Clarity Laser Vision, we provide personalized care with the most advanced technology to take you to your best vision. Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more about ICL eye surgery and start a life free of glasses and contacts.
FAQ
1. Can ICL lenses treat astigmatism?
Yes, toric ICL lenses are specially designed to treat astigmatism as well as enhance overall vision acuity.
2. How long do ICL lenses last?
The collamer lens lasts for a lifetime but can be removed or replaced as required.
3. Can ICL surgery be done with other treatments?
Yes, sometimes it can be done along with cataract surgery or laser procedures for complete vision correction.
4. How soon can I return to daily activities?
You can do everyday things like reading, using a computer, and watching TV in 1–2 days, but wait a week before exercising or swimming.
