When contact lenses first arrived on the vision correction scene, one of the promoted benefits was freedom from the inconveniences of having to wear eyeglasses. In reality, contacts simply traded one set of inconveniences for another.
Then, laser refractive surgery upped the vision correction game by providing a permanent way to reduce your dependence on contacts and glasses.
With three offices in Midtown East, New York City, and Pasadena and Long Beach California, Advanced Lasik offers a full scope of vision correction procedures — and we also offer another treatment that relieves you of the hassles of contact lens maintenance.
Implantable contact lenses (ICLs), also known as implantable collamer lenses, provide a viable solution for patients who’d like to ditch their contact lenses, but can’t undergo standard laser vision correction surgery. Ophthalmologist Dr. Randa Garrana assesses your vision and makes a recommendation that gives you the best chance for optimal vision.
Here’s when we might recommend ICLs to free you from contacts and glasses.
Essentially, ICLs work in the same way as conventional contact lenses, except that they’re permanently implanted in your eyes, and require no daily care. Your vision remains clear at all times.
As with other permanent vision correction procedures, there are a few variations on the ICL process. In some cases, the implant goes behind the iris, the colored portion of your eye, while in other cases, the ICL sits in front of the iris and behind the cornea.
ICLs work with your eye’s natural lens to provide permanent vision correction. Depending on the design and materials used in the ICL, you may require tiny holes in the iris to permit natural fluid drainage; some ICL designs incorporate this feature.
As always, the best solution for refractive errors takes your vision correction prescription into account. ICLs work best at correcting myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. The best candidates for ICL surgery have a prescription that’s been stable for one year or longer.
Generally, the best age for an ICL procedure is between 22-45 years old.
Your eyes must fall within certain physical parameters to handle the impact of an implanted contact. Your corneas must meet specific criteria in regard to shape and thickness, as well as the anterior chamber angle — a feature that influences normal eye drainage.
Some patients aren’t candidates for LASIK or other laser vision correction surgeries. ICL may be an option for many who don’t qualify for laser eye surgeries.
For those who have issues with contact lens care, ICL is a maintenance-free alternative that may last longer than laser correction procedures.
Ready to find out if ICLs may be a good solution for you?
Our Advanced Lasik team is here to help. Call or click online today to schedule a visit at your nearest office in Midtown East, New York City, or in Pasadena or Long Beach, California.
