Phakic Lens Implantation

Since not everyone is suitable for laser intervention, a phakic lens implant, also known as implantable collamer lens (ICL), can provide a solution for those higher myopes, up to -18.0D, as well as for those who have a thin cornea.

This is typically a quick 20-30 minute procedure and most people are able to resume daily activities in just a few short days with clearer vision. For most patients the vision improvement is immediate, but it usually takes 2-4 weeks for stabilisation of vision.

The EVO Visian ICL is an Implantable Collamer Lens that works with the eye to correct vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses that go on the surface of the eye, the EVO Visian ICL is positioned inside the eye between the iris (the coloured part of the eye) and the natural lens where it stays indefinitely. 

Because EVO Visian ICL preserves the structure of the eye, the lens can be removed and replaced if your vision changes substantially, or if you have another procedure at any time.

One of the most common concerns people have about laser-based correction is that the procedure permanently changes the shape of their eye by removing corneal tissue. An advantage of the EVO Visian ICL is that it can permanently correct your vision, yet no natural tissue is removed. If for the unlikely event you need or wish to remove your EVO Visian ICLs in the future, your doctor can accommodate you.

The EVO Visian ICL has been approved in Europe since 1997 and in the US since 2005. In that time, over 550,000 eyes have been implanted with Visian ICLs by certified, specialized surgeons. In a clinical trial, patients reported a 99% satisfaction rate.

Advantages of EVO Visian ICL

Many vision correction procedures promise an improved level of vision, but few vision correction alternatives offer the quality and features found with the EVO Visian ICL.

• Sharp, clear Vision
• Does not induce dry eye syndrome
• Excellent night vision
• Great for those with thin corneas
• UV protection built into the biocompatible lenses
• Treats moderate to high myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.

Hyperopic lenses require an additional tiny opening in the coloured portion of your eye to ensure that the fluid inside your eye flows properly. Please consult your physician for more details.

• Visian ICL is approved for use in adults from 21 to 45 years of age.
• With the correction of myopia in adults ranging from -0.5D to -18.0D with or without astigmatism up to 6.0D.
• With the correction of hyperopia in adults with hyperopia ranging from +0.5D to +10.0D with or without astigmatism up to 6.0D.

Patients will not be eligible if any of the following apply:

• Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD) of < 3.0mm.
• Anterior chamber angle < Grade III as determined by gonioscopic examination.
• Are pregnant or nursing.
• Patients with low/abnormal corneal endothelial cell density, Fuch’s dystrophy, or other corneal pathology.
• Ocular hypertension in either eye.
• Any cataract in the operative eye or non-traumatic cataract in the fellow eye.
  Previous or pre-existing ocular disease that would preclude postoperative visual acuity of 6 /18 or better.
• Patients who are amblyopic or blind in the fellow eye.
• Keratoconus.
• Primary open angle or narrow angle glaucoma.

Day of Surgery

It is important that you do not drive yourself home so make arrangements before the day of surgery. 

Prior to implantation, you will receive anaesthetic eye drops to minimize any discomfort. Then, a small opening will be made into your cornea that will be used to insert and position the lens. Next, the lens is injected, gently unfolding in your eye. the procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes. 

Recovery time is short. A few hours after the procedure you will be able to leave the clinic.

After Surgery

To complete the procedure, the surgeon will provide eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation. You will continue to use these drops for several days once you are home. 

DO NOT rub your eyes, especially for the first 3 to 5 days. 

If you experience pain or notice any sudden decrease in vision, you should contact your doctor immediately. Then your only instructions are to check in for eye exams on a routine basis.