ICL intraocular lenses: a safe and effective option for vision correction

22/07/2025

ICL intraocular lenses are an advanced and effective alternative for correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This treatment involves an implant that is placed inside the eye without altering the cornea, making it an ideal option for those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK, SMILE or PRK techniques.

How do ICL phakic lenses work?

ICL phakic lenses are collamer implants designed to be placed between the iris and the natural lens, without the need to remove any part of the eye. This treatment preserves the eye’s natural ability to focus, as it does not replace the crystalline lens but instead complements the eye’s optical system to improve its refractive capacity.

The main goal of this procedure is to correct refractive errors, improving how light enters the eye so it is properly focused on the retina, resulting in clear vision.

This procedure is fully reversible, as the lenses can be removed or replaced if necessary.

Advantages of ICL intraocular lenses

Implanting ICL lenses offers numerous benefits compared to other vision correction techniques:

• Does not alter the cornea, making it ideal for patients with thin corneas
• Corrects high prescriptions – up to -20 dioptres of myopia and up to 6 dioptres of astigmatism
• A reversible and safe procedure that does not affect natural eye tissue
• Quick recovery, with visual improvement in just a few hours

When is this treatment recommended?

Phakic intraocular lenses are an option for those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK, SMILE or PRK. They are particularly recommended in the following cases:

• High myopia: When distance vision is significantly impaired, these lenses offer more accurate correction than glasses or contact lenses
• High hyperopia: For cases where other surgeries are not viable
• Severe astigmatism: They improve vision in patients with irregular corneas
• Thin or dry corneas: A safe alternative for those unable to undergo laser surgery
• Patients with a stable prescription, usually over the age of 18

It is essential for an ophthalmologist to evaluate each case to determine whether the patient is suitable for this procedure.

ICL surgery: what does the procedure involve?

ICL surgery is an outpatient procedure lasting approximately 20–30 minutes and is performed under local anaesthetic in the form of eye drops. The process includes:

1. Preoperative evaluation: Diagnostic tests are carried out to determine the correct lens power
2. Lens insertion: Through a 3 mm incision
3. Self-sealing closure: The incision naturally seals without stitches

Recovery is usually quick, and most patients notice an improvement in vision within 24 hours.

Results and risks

The outcomes of ICL intraocular lens implantation are generally highly satisfactory. In most cases, vision stabilises within a couple of weeks, allowing patients to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Although the results are long-lasting, natural ageing of the eye may require adjustments in the future.

As with any surgical procedure, implanting phakic intraocular lenses carries some risks. While these are relatively low, it is important that patients are fully informed before making a decision. Potential risks include:

• Incorrect lens sizing: In some cases, the lens may be too large or too small for the intended space. At Barraquer, we perform several state-of-the-art tests to minimise this risk. If it does occur, the lens can simply be replaced, given the reversible nature of the procedure
• Minor residual defects: These typically do not require correction, but if necessary, the lens can be changed
• Lens rotation in cases of astigmatism correction
• Infection: There is a small risk of eye infection after surgery, although it is very rare. Proper use of antibiotics and following medical instructions can greatly reduce this risk

It is important to note that risks and complications may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each patient, so a thorough assessment by an ophthalmologist is crucial before recommending this treatment.

ICL intraocular lenses offer a safe, effective and reversible option for those wishing to correct their vision without undergoing laser surgery. Thanks to their many advantages and excellent visual quality, more and more patients are choosing this treatment as a reliable alternative. If you are interested in ICL surgery, consult a specialised ophthalmology team to determine whether this treatment is right for you.

Dr. José Lamarca, Ophthalmologist at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre