Explore implantable contact lenses (ICL) in Adelaide

Learn how this vision option works and whether it may suit your eyes

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Explore implantable contact lenses (ICL) in Adelaide

Learn how this vision option works and whether it may suit your eyes

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A different way to approach your vision needs

ICL surgery may be considered when laser eye surgery is not suitable

Am I suitable for ICL surgery?

ICLs are intraocular contact lenses that are a choice for patients who are not suitable for laser vision correction treatments like SMILE Pro or LASIK.

Patients who have a high level of shortsightedness, astigmatism or high level of longsightedness, with sufficient depth at the front of their eye, are good candidates for implantable contact lens surgery.
Patients who have thin corneas such that they are not able to have SMILE Pro or LASIK; or patients with Keratoconus are also good candidates for ICLs.

  • Implantable contact lenses are very thin and flexible lenses that we place behind the iris in the eye. The ICL procedure can correct shortsightedness, astigmatism or high levels of longsightedness.
  • Once inside the eye, they provide stable and high-quality vision1 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11110473/. Vision quality can vary from person to person.

  • ICLs can be removed or exchanged if needed, which some patients find reassuring.
  • This approach may be considered for people with higher prescriptions, depending on individual assessment.
  • People who prefer not to rely on glasses or contact lenses for certain activities sometimes explore ICL surgery as another option.
  • Some individuals look into ICLs because they want an alternative to ongoing contact lens wear.

ICLs are very safe2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5298816/; however, any kind of intraocular surgery inherently has a low risk of:

  • Endophthalmitis (infection)
  • Glaucoma
  • Induced cataract
  • Retinal detachment
  • Need for ICL removal

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

For patients who are over 45-50 years of age and develop the need for both distance and reading glasses (presbyopia), refractive lens exchange may be a better option.

The surgery is similar to cataract surgery where the natural lens of the eye is replaced with an implant. This gives patients the access to premium intraocular (IOL) technology, which can allow spectacle independence at all distances.

Our eye surgeon, Dr Gupta, will take you through the latest IOL choices and help you make the right choice for your needs.

We usually operate on each eye on separate days.

  • Dr Gupta offers the option of surgery 1 day apart.

On the day of surgery:

  • We offer you some mild sedation.
  • We administer eye drops to numb your eyes (you will feel no pain).
  • A small 3.0mm incision is created for the implant to be inserted.
  • Once inserted the lens is positioned into its perfect spot.
  • Usually, the procedure takes just 15-20 minutes.
  • You are prescribed some postoperative drops.
  • Someone drives you home.

ICL surgery places a small lens inside the eye to change how light is focused. Many people consider this option when they have higher prescriptions or when laser procedures are not suitable. Outcomes vary from person to person, and your clinician will guide you on what may be realistic for your eyes.

Some people appreciate that an ICL can be removed or replaced if needed, which offers a sense of flexibility when planning for the future. Your surgeon will explain how the lens works, what to expect during recovery, and the possible risks and benefits based on your individual assessment.

Discover if you can be free from glasses and contact lenses

The best way to find out if vision correction is right for you is to have a free assessment. We’ll examine your eyes and you’ll get a clear answer from our experts on your suitability and vision correction options.

Three easy steps to gain freedom from glasses and contacts

Start your journey today to see if you’re suitable
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Get in touch

Laser eye surgery isn’t right for everyone. Your first step is to discover if you’re suitable. You can take the self-test or call us on: 08 7082 2066 to book a free assessment.

We’ll meet

We examine your eyes and answer your questions at your free assessment appointment. We then give you a clear recommendation based on your needs and lifestyle. You’ll then know the best treatment option for your unique eyes.

"Smiling couple in the countryside looking lovingly at each other whilst holding red wine glasses".

See your day in a new way

Some people say they think about their vision in a new way after their procedure. They may notice small changes in their daily routines or how they manage tasks without reaching for glasses or contacts as often. Each person’s feelings are different, and experiences vary.3https://pr.murrayjournal.com/article/New-Study-Explores-the-Connection-Between-LASIK-Surgery-and-Brain-Activity?storyId=67636893655cd50008f3703d.

Take this quick quiz to see if you can be free of glasses and contacts

Not everyone is suitable for vision correction. Your options change depending on your eyes, your age and your lifestyle. Find out which type of treatment (if any), is right for you by taking this 2 min quiz:

Learn more about ICL surgery through these online resources

Expand your knowledge about implantable contact lenses. (These links will take you off our website.)

Phakic intraocular lens (phakic IOL or pIOL) implants are an alternative to LASIK and PRK eye surgery for correcting moderate to severe myopia (nearsightedness). In some cases, phakic IOLs produce better and more predictable vision outcomes than laser refractive surgery.

This article covers the different types of Phakic IOLs, the comprehensive differences between Phakic IOLs & LASIK eye surgery, and expectations and outcomes. Click here for more information.

Phakic intraocular lenses have been widely used for the correction of various degrees of refractive errors, including myopic and hyperopic ones alone, for which spherical lenses are used, or combined with astigmatism, which requires toric lenses. Click here for more information.

To compare matched populations of LASIK and Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) cases in the
correction of myopia between -3.00 and -7.88 diopters (D). Click here for more information.

Affiliations and memberships

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Hi, I’m Dr Aanchal Gupta, your laser and cataract surgeon in Adelaide

Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the joy of helping thousands of patients of all ages gain clear vision and freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

Laser eye surgery is a skill. Performing vision correction at a world-class standard hinges upon the expertise of your surgeon and their access to state-of-the-art tools.

I understand that getting eye surgery is a serious decision. Your eyes are unique and you should demand a custom solution tailored to your needs, lifestyle and goals. That’s why we offer a free appointment so we can meet and I can take the time to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you have.

I am passionate about helping patients transform their lives. I look forward to spending time with you at our gorgeous eye clinic in the heart of Adelaide to see whether you could gain exceptional vision without the need for glasses or contacts.

Dr Aanchal Gupta

MBBS, M.Med. (Ophth. Sci.), Grad. Dip. (Refract. Surg.), FRANZCO
Expert Laser Eye and Cataract Surgeon