Patients with cataracts have long benefitted from implantable lenses. Now, those with other vision problems can benefit from a similar type of lens technology. Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler of Boxer Wachler Vision Institute in Beverly Hills explains why implantable contact lenses (ICLs) are a good choice for many patients, especially those who are not candidates for LASIK.
Implantable Contact Lenses
ICLs are made of biocompatible collamer, a material containing a tiny amount of purified collagen. Collamer has a long history of safe use in cataract lenses.
ICL vision correction is typically long-term, but changes are possible when necessary.
ICL Candidates
Candidates for ICLs must not have had any significant prescription changes for at least six months. They cannot have a history of signicant cataracts. The minimum age for patients is usually 21.
ICL Surgery
The ICL procedure involves an initial consultation to assess eye health and vision. During the actual procedure, the patient receives a mild sedative and numbing eye drops. The surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the eye. The ICL is then inserted behind the colored part of the eye, known as the iris. There is typically no need for stitches. The incision usually closes on its own.
Patients cannot drive themselves home from the procedure. That is true even though the change in vision is immediate.
ICL Benefits
Was there ever a time in your life when you did not need to wear glasses or put in contact lenses as soon as you woke up? Perhaps the biggest ICL benefit is a return to those days, and often with the goal of saying goodbye to the need for glasses and removeable contact lenses. ICLs have many other benefits over other vision correction procedures, including:
- Less likely to result in dry eye
- Lower risk of glare or halos
- UV filter in the ICL
- Better night vision
- Never feeling the ICL in the eye
- No maintenance needed
An Alternative to LASIK
Not everyone likes the idea of having laser surgery to correct vision. Moreover, not everyone is a candidate for LASIK.
For example, those with thin corneas are not LASIK candidates, but can usually receive ICLs. Not only do ICLs offer an alternative to LASIK, but they can correct vision issues that LASIK cannot.
LASIK surgery changes the cornea’s shape by permanently removing tissue. That is not the case with ICLs. Should your vision change, the surgeon can remove your current ICLs and, if desired, replace them with updated lenses.
Contact Us
If you would like to know more about implantable contact lenses and whether they are right for you, contact Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler at the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute in Beverly Hills and schedule a personal consultation. Our practice treats patients from out-of-state and internationally.
