Inside the Eye: How Implantable Contact Lens (ICLs) Can Improve Your Vision

Introduction: A Clear Path to Vision with ICLs

You may dream of waking up every day with clear vision—no need to reach for your glasses or put in contact lenses. For many people, this is now possible thanks to a breakthrough in eye surgery called Implantable Contact Lens (ICLs). These lenses provide a powerful solution for those who want better vision, especially for people with severe refractive errors or vision errors who might not be the best candidates for laser or other vision correction surgeries.

Exploring common eye conditions that affect vision

In people with myopia, or nearsightedness, distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear.^1,2 In people with hyperopia, or farsightedness, nearby objects appear blurry, while distant objects are seen more clearly.³

In the case of astigmatism, an unevenly curved cornea causes light to refract irregularly, leading to blurry or distorted vision at all distances.⁴

These conditions affect how light is focused on your eye, and each can cause vision problems that make daily activities more challenging. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about the best way to correct your vision, whether through glasses, contact lenses, or ICLs.⁵

ICLs: The Gateway to Glasses-Free Clarity

ICLs are biocompatible, stable, and flexible lenses implanted into the eye to correct vision issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness, with or without astigmatism. Unlike cataract surgery lenses, ICLs are inserted into the eye without removing the natural lens. This allows the eye's natural lens to remain in place and work in harmony with the implanted lens. As a result, the eye's natural lens stays in place and continues to function together with the implanted lens. Also, these lenses help to focus light accurately, which leads to clearer vision.

Clearer Sight: How ICLs Transform Your Vision

In a normal eye, light is focused directly onto the retina, allowing for clear vision. However, in people with vision errors, the light is focused either in front of or behind the retina, leading to blurred vision.^1-4 The primary function of ICLs is to correct the way light is focused onto the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.

During the procedure, the lens is gently inserted through a tiny incision in the eye and positioned between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the natural lens. Once in place, it helps focus light precisely onto the retina.

ICLs help treat vision problems by focusing light rays properly, allowing the image of what you're looking at to focus directly on the retina instead of in front of it.

For example, in a myopic (nearsighted) person, the ICL helps move the focus of light from in front of the retina back onto the retina, thus providing clear vision. Similarly, for hyperopic (farsighted) individuals, the ICL shifts the focus from behind the retina to the correct position on the retina.

The lens itself is customized to the patient’s specific vision error, which means the correction is tailored to provide long-term vision correction.

The Unique Advantages of ICLs Compared to Glasses and Contact Lenses

One of the main differences between ICLs and glasses or contacts is the location of the correction.

Glasses are placed on the nose and contact lenses rest on the eye's surface. Both options correct vision by changing the way light enters the eye.⁵

Glasses can be a hassle, especially when it comes to activities like sports, where they can be limiting. They are also prone to issues like fogging and smudging. Over time, the cost of glasses can add up significantly, as they are not permanent, and you may need to replace them frequently due to changes in prescription or wear and tear.⁵

Contact lenses offer clear vision without the worry of them fogging up during sports, making it easier to stay active. However, they come with daily hassles, as you may need to put them in and remove them every day. They can also be inconvenient when traveling and aren't ideal for water sports. It’s important not to wear contact lenses while showering, swimming, or sleeping, as this can lead to discomfort on the eye's surface and, in some cases, could result in serious eye infections.⁵ Also, for individuals with dry eyes, traditional contact lenses can often cause discomfort.⁶

ICLs, on the other hand, are placed inside the eye, where they are not subject to these external factors. This means that once implanted, they provide stable, clear vision without the need for daily maintenance and do not cause dry eyes.⁷

With ICLs, the dream of clear vision without glasses or contacts becomes a reality, allowing you to enjoy life with newfound clarity and ease.

Exploring the Safety of ICLs

ICLs have been extensively studied and have a strong safety record. The procedure to implant them is minimally invasive and typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes per eye.

Recovery time is also relatively quick, with most patients experiencing improved vision nearly immediately after the procedure. The procedure is as quick as watching an episode of your favorite TV show!

The ICL can permanently correct vision without removing corneal tissue. Also, they can be removed by a doctor if needed, giving you flexibility as your vision changes over time. The lenses are made of a material that is highly biocompatible meaning it works well with the body’s natural tissues.

Embracing a Clearer Future with ICLs

Opting for ICLs can be a transformative choice for those looking for a dependable and long-term solution to vision problems. With ICLs, you can enjoy clear vision without relying on glasses or contact lenses, making daily activities simpler and more enjoyable. The ability to remove these lenses by an eye surgeon, if needed, adds an extra layer of reassurance for patients. Whether you struggle with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, ICLs offer a personalized solution to enhance your vision and overall quality of life.

Choosing ICLs is more than just improving your eyesight; it’s about gaining the freedom to live life on your terms. The proven safety and effectiveness of ICLs provide a reliable path to better vision, allowing you to embrace the future with confidence.

Key take aways:

• ICLs offer clear vision without the requirement for glasses or contact lenses.
• They may be a great option also for people who aren't candidates for laser vision correction surgery.
• ICLs are implanted inside the eye without removing the natural lens.
• ICLs are safe, minimally invasive, and can be removed, making them a long-term flexible choice for vision correction.

Ask your eye specialist today about the US FDA approved ICL.

Find an eye clinic near you.

References:
1. Jonker SM, Berendschot TT, Saelens IE, Bauer NJ, Nuijts RM. Phakic intraocular lenses: an overview. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2020 Dec 1;68(12):2779-96.
2. Myopia (Nearsightedness) American Optometric Association. Available from, https://www.aoa.org/healthy-ey... Accessed on Aug 23, 2024.
3. Hyperopia (Far-sightedness) American Optometric association. Available from, https://www.aoa.org/healthy-ey... Accessed on Aug 23, 2024.
4. Astigmatism, American Optometric Association. Available from. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-ey... Accessed on Aug 23, 2024.
5. Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Available from, https://www.rcophth.ac.uk/wp-c... Accessed on Aug 23, 2024.
6. Stein R, Stein R. Posterior Chamber Phakic Intraocular Lens: Indications, Contraindications, Technique, and Postoperative Management. CRO Journal. 2023 May 22.
7. Zhang H, et al. Analysis on the changes of objective indicators of dry eye after implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation surgery. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2024 Jul;262(7):2321-2328.

Disclaimer: This is for general information and awareness purpose only. Please consult your physician for medical advice. Issued in public interest by STAAR SURGICAL^TM to create awareness about Implantable Contact Lens (ICL). Talk to your eye surgeon for guidance, if you suffer from myopia or hyperopia.

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