Not everyone is a candidate for laser eye surgery such as LASIK or PRK. For some patients, an alternative procedure known as Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery can provide outstanding results with the added benefit of being reversible. At the Queensland Eye Institute, Dr Geoffrey Ryan offers ICL surgery for patients who want crisp, clear vision without the permanent removal of corneal tissue.
Who Is Suitable for ICL Surgery?
ICL surgery is particularly suited to patients who:
- Have moderate to severe short-sightedness (myopia), often beyond the safe treatment range for LASIK or PRK.
- Have thin or irregular corneas, making laser vision correction less suitable.
- Suffer from dry eyes that could worsen with laser surgery.
- Are between 21–45 years old with stable prescriptions.
- Prefer a reversible procedure that does not permanently alter the cornea.
During your consultation, Dr Ryan will perform detailed eye scans and measurements to ensure ICL surgery is right for you.
Advantages of ICL Surgery
- High-Definition Vision: ICLs deliver sharp, clear vision, often exceeding what glasses or contact lenses provide.
- Wide Treatment Range: Suitable for patients with very high prescriptions.
- Preservation of Corneal Tissue: Unlike LASIK, ICL does not remove corneal tissue, making it safer for thin corneas.
- Reversibility: The lens can be removed or replaced if necessary, offering long-term flexibility.
- UV Protection: Collamer lenses provide built-in protection against harmful UV rays.
- Quick Recovery: Many patients notice improved vision almost immediately.
Disadvantages of ICL Surgery
- Cost: ICL surgery is generally more expensive than LASIK or PRK.
- Cataract Risk: In rare cases, ICLs can accelerate cataract development.
- Intraocular Procedure: As the lens is implanted inside the eye, the procedure carries slightly higher surgical risks than corneal laser surgery.
- Periodic Monitoring: Patients require ongoing eye health checks to monitor eye pressure and lens position.
The ICL Surgery Process with Dr Ryan
- Pre-Surgery Assessment
At your initial visit, Dr Ryan will conduct a full eye examination and discuss whether ICL surgery is the best option for you. You’ll learn about the lens, expected results, and aftercare. - Day of Surgery
- You’ll be admitted to the Queensland Eye Institute’s modern surgical facility.
- Twilight sedation is used to ensure you are relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Numbing drops are also applied, so you won’t feel pain.
- A small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. The foldable Collamer lens is gently inserted and positioned behind the iris (the coloured part of your eye) and in front of your natural lens.
- The incision usually seals naturally without stitches
The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes per eye.
Recovery
- Most patients notice improved vision almost immediately.
- You may experience mild blurring or light sensitivity for the first day or two.
- Dr Ryan will review your eyes at regular intervals to ensure they are healing well and that the lenses are correctly positioned.
- Normal activities can usually be resumed within a few days.
Why Choose Dr Ryan for ICL Surgery?
At the Queensland Eye Institute, Dr Geoffrey Ryan combines surgical expertise with advanced technology to deliver safe, effective results. His patient-focused approach ensures you are well informed, comfortable, and supported at every stage. With his guidance, you can feel confident about choosing the right vision correction option for your unique eyes.
A Flexible Path to Clear Vision
ICL surgery offers life-changing benefits for patients who may not be suitable for laser eye surgery—or who want the reassurance of a reversible solution. With Dr Ryan’s experience and the state-of-the-art facilities at the Queensland Eye Institute, you can look forward to a future of clear, natural vision.