Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a type of intraocular lens that is great for correcting high degrees of refractive error. Coastal Vision Medical employs Visian ICL, which is FDA approved. Visian ICL is a great alternative if for some reason you are not a candidate for corneal refractive surgery such as LASIK or PRK. For example, a patient who has a high degree of refractive error with thin corneas would not be a good candidate for LASIK and PRK, but they could be a perfect candidate for Visian ICL.

Visian ICL works similarly to contact lenses, but instead of placing the lens on the surface of the eye, it is positioned inside the eye between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the natural lens. The procedure takes only about 10 minutes to perform for each eye, and you can do both eyes at the same time. Visian ICL is safe and proven through FDA studies. It is a reliable procedure that can deliver excellent outcomes while achieving the same goal as LASIK: Corrected vision with the freedom from contact lenses and glasses.

Visian ICL has a fast recovery time, and the procedure is entirely reversible. Some of the risks associated with refractive lens exchange (RLE) such loss of accommodation (ability to focus) are avoided with Visian ICL.

Technologically Advanced Lens Material

Unlike other lenses, the Visian ICL is made from Collamer, a technologically advanced lens material exclusive to STAAR Surgical. Because of the collagen in Collamer, it is biocompatible with the eye (not seen as a foreign object to the body) and provides exceptional quality of vision. The lens rests quietly in position while accurately correcting vision.

There is now a Toric ICL option, which can correct up to 4 diopters of astigmatism.

Corrects a Wide Range of Vision Needs

If you are between 21 and 45 and nearsighted, you are an excellent candidate for the Visian ICL. It is preferable that you have had no previous ophthalmic surgery or history of ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy.

·         Thin Corneas: The cornea is the curved portion on the front surface of the eye. The Visian ICL does not have any effect on the cornea and may be appropriate if you have thin corneas. Visian ICL may be an option for those who are not candidates for LASIK eye surgery.

·         Dry Eyes: Visian ICL might be a much better choice if you have significant dry eyes. If you have dry eyes, ask your doctor if the Visian ICL may be the best vision correction option for you

·         Extreme Refractive Error: Refractive error in the focusing of light by the eye is a frequent reason for reduced visual acuity. Anyone seeking clear vision may be a candidate for the Visian ICL, including those patients with low and extreme high refractive errors

Watch this video to hear about our great patient, Dr. Kathryn Pham's journey with the Visian ICL and vision correction surgery. Visian ICL can give you the freedom to see the world without the hassles of contacts and glasses. See the difference Visian ICL can make for people from all walks of life.