ICL Eye Surgery Brisbane
A reversible alternative to laser vision correction
If you’ve been told you’re not suitable for laser eye surgery – or you have a higher prescription – ICL eye surgery may offer a safe and effective path to clear, stable vision.
At Dr Geoffrey Ryan’s Brisbane practice, implantable contact lens (ICL) procedures are carefully tailored to your eyes, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals. Using advanced diagnostics and a personalised treatment plan, Dr Ryan determines whether this form of vision correction is the right fit for you.
What is ICL eye surgery?
ICL eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery that involves placing a soft, flexible lens inside the eye to correct vision.
Unlike laser eye surgery, ICL does not permanently remove corneal tissue. Instead, a biocompatible collamer lens is inserted behind the iris and in front of your natural lens to improve how light focuses on the retina.
This makes it a suitable solution for patients who:
- Have thin corneas
- Have high prescriptions
- Are not suitable for LASIK surgery or other laser vision correction procedures
ICL is sometimes described as functioning like a contact lens inside the eye – but without the daily maintenance of removing and cleaning it.
How ICL surgery works
The implantable collamer lens (ICL) works by adding a new lens to your eye rather than reshaping the cornea.
This lens:
- Sits behind the iris and in front of the natural lens
- Works with your eye’s natural focusing system
- Can be removed or replaced if needed
Because the corneal structure remains unchanged, ICL is often recommended for patients where laser surgery may not be ideal.
Is ICL right for you?
ICL surgery is not suitable for everyone, which is why a comprehensive assessment is essential.
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- Have a stable prescription and stable vision
- Have thin corneas or corneal issues
- Have moderate to high prescriptions
- Prefer a reversible vision correction procedure
ICL may not be suitable if you:
- Have certain eye diseases
- Have insufficient anterior chamber depth
- Have unmanaged eye pressure issues
Dr Ryan will carefully assess your eye health and recommend the most appropriate option based on your individual needs.
Or call us on (07) 3239 5000
What conditions can ICL treat?
ICL eye surgery is designed to correct common refractive errors, including:
- Short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
It may be suitable for patients with high prescriptions who are not suitable for other vision correction procedures.
The ICL procedure – what actually happens
ICL implantation is typically performed as a day surgery procedure and is designed to be precise and efficient.
During the procedure:
- Anaesthetic eye drops are applied to ensure comfort
- You are heavily sedated for the entire procedure
- A small incision is made in the eye
- The flexible lens implant is inserted and positioned behind the iris
- The lens unfolds naturally into place
The incision is so small that stitches are usually not required.
The procedure itself is quick, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
What does ICL surgery feel like?
ICL surgery is performed under heavy sedation together with anaesthetic eye drops. The aim is for you to be deeply asleep and unaware of the procedure, with little or no memory of it afterwards. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and experience little to no discomfort.
Recovery after ICL surgery
Recovery from ICL eye surgery is usually smooth, with many patients returning to normal activities within a few days.
In the first few weeks, you may notice:
- Mild blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Temporary dryness
You’ll be prescribed medicated eye drops to support healing and reduce inflammation.
Follow-up visits are important to monitor:
- Eye pressure
- Lens positioning
- Overall healing process
Results – what can you expect?
ICL surgery is designed to provide long-term vision correction.
Most patients report:
- Clearer, sharper vision
- Reduced reliance on glasses or contact lenses
- Improved day-to-day comfort
Because the natural lens remains in place, the eye’s focusing ability is preserved.
Some patients may still require reading glasses later in life due to natural ageing changes.
Risks and considerations
All eye surgery carries some level of risk, although complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced eye surgeon.
Potential risks include:
- Increased eye pressure
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Visual disturbances
A laser iridotomy may be recommended prior to surgery to support fluid flow within the eye.
Dr Ryan will explain all risks clearly and ensure you have realistic expectations before proceeding.
ICL vs other laser eye surgery options
ICL is one of several vision correction options available.
ICL vs LASIK
- ICL does not remove corneal tissue
- LASIK reshapes the cornea using a laser
- ICL is often preferred for thin corneas or high prescriptions
ICL vs PRK
- PRK involves surface reshaping of the cornea
- ICL avoids affecting corneal nerves
ICL vs refractive lens exchange
- ICL preserves the natural lens
- Lens replacement removes and replaces it
Unlike laser eye surgery, ICL is reversible and may be adjusted if your vision changes over time.
Every eye is different
Find out if ICL is right for you
A detailed consultation with Dr Geoffrey Ryan can determine whether PRK, TransPRK, LASIK, ICL or another vision correction procedure is the best option for your needs. An exact cost can only be provided after your consultation, once your eye health and vision needs have been fully assessed.
Book Refractive AssessmentCost of ICL eye surgery
$6,000
per eye
The cost of ICL is all inclusive - surgeon fee, anaesthetist, hospital fee, lens and post operative care.
Why choose Dr Geoffrey Ryan for ICL Brisbane?
Choosing an experienced eye surgeon is essential for achieving safe, effective outcomes.
Dr Geoffrey Ryan offers:
- Over a decade of experience in refractive surgery
- Personalised treatment plans based on your eye anatomy and lifestyle
- Advanced diagnostics to determine the best procedure
- Access to a full range of vision correction procedures
You’ll receive clear advice, tailored recommendations, and ongoing support throughout your treatment.
Or call us on (07) 3239 5000
What happens at your ICL consultation?
Your consultation is designed to determine whether ICL surgery is right for you.
This includes:
A comprehensive assessment of your eye health
Measurement of corneal thickness and anterior chamber depth
Evaluation of your vision and refractive errors
Discussion of your lifestyle and goals
You’ll receive a personalised treatment plan outlining:
Your suitability for ICL
Alternative options if required
Expected outcomes and recovery
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Give us a call, we're happy to help.
Or call us on (07) 3239 5000
Is ICL eye surgery permanent?
ICL provides long-term vision correction, but the lens can be removed or replaced if required.
Is ICL better than laser eye surgery?
It depends on your eyes. ICL is often preferred for patients with thin corneas or high prescriptions.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, with vision continuing to stabilise over the first few weeks.
Will I still need glasses?
Many patients no longer need glasses or contact lenses for distance vision, but reading glasses may still be required later in life.
Is the procedure safe?
ICL has a well-established safety profile, though as with any surgery, there are risks, which will be discussed with you beforehand.
Take the next step towards clearer vision
If you're exploring ICL surgery, the first step is a comprehensive assessment.
Dr Geoffrey Ryan will determine whether implantable contact lenses or another treatment is the right option for your vision.
Written and reviewed by Dr Geoffrey Ryan MBBS MMed BSc FRANZCO – Cataract, Corneal, Glaucoma and Refractive Surgeon
Last reviewed: 03 September 2026