Visian ICL™ [Implantable Collamer® Lens]

Visian ICLImagine the luxury of taking perfect vision for granted. Now, with the Visian ICL, you are finally able to do just that. The Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), better known as the Implantable Contact Lens, is made of a special material called collamer and works with the eye to correct your vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses that go on the surface of the eye, the Visian ICL is surgically inserted into the eye and doesn't require any special cleaning solutions or maintenance on your part.

The Procedure:

ICLPrior to the implantation of the Visian ICL, you will receive topical anesthetic drops. Your surgeon may also administer a sedative.

  • First, a microscopic opening will be made where the white of your eye meets the colored part.
  • Second, a gel-like substance will be injected into your eye and the Visian ICL will be inserted in front of your iris.
  • Finally, the Visian ICL is carefully placed behind the iris and the gel is removed from your eye.

That's it! Because the opening made is microscopic, it will heal naturally in a very short period of time without needing any sutures. You will notice immediate results after the simple, 15-minute outpatient procedure. A few hours after the procedure you will be able to leave the clinic, and you will experience high quality vision you never thought was possible.

The Visian ICL™ Advantage:

There are many unique advantages to the Visian ICL, including:

  1. High Definition - Vision correction that's sharper, clearer, more vivid, and goes beyond the limitations of LASIK.
  2. Exceptional Patient Experience - After a simple 15-minute procedure you see an immediate improvement and are "Wowed" by the results.
  3. Comfort From The Start - With a short recovery time it's likely you can return to work the next day; there is also minimal discomfort and the Visian ICL does not cause nor contribute to dry eyes.
  4. Solution For Life - If your vision changes dramatically the Visian ICL can be removed from the eye by a simple surgical procedure. In addition, a unique feature of the Visian ICL is the UV blocker that provides a lifetime of protection.
  5. Patient Preferred - With more than 80,000 procedures performed worldwide and over 99% patient satisfaction, the Visian ICL is becoming the vision correction of choice.
Visian ICL ™
LASIK
(Photos courtesty of Ed Sarver, PhD)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I a candidate for the Visian ICL?

If you are between 21 and 45 and nearsighted, you are an excellent candidate for Visian ICL. It is preferable that you have had no previous ophthalmic surgery or history of ophthalmic desease such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy.

Exactly where is the Visian ICL placed in the eye?

The Visian ICL is placed in the "posterior chamber", behind the iris and in front of the eye's crystalline lens. The lens does not attach to any internal eye structures to stay in position.

What is the track record of the Visian ICL?

Extensive research and development preceded the introduction of the Visian ICL. It is now being used by more than 80,000 patients worldwide. The satisfaction rate among patients is extremely high - above 99%. The Visian ICL provides excellent and stable outcomes.

What if my vision changes?

The Visian ICL offers treatment flexibility. If your vision changes dramatically, the lens can be removed and replaced, or another procedure can be performed at any time. With the Visian ICL, you can wear glasses or contact lenses if necessary. The Visian ICL does not help presbyopia (difficulty with reading in people over 40), but you can add reading glasses if needed.

Can the ICL dry out or get dirty like a contact lens and can it be felt once in place?

No. The Visian ICL avoids problems experienced with traditional contact lenses. It is designed to remain in place inside your eye, without maintenance. Since the Visian ICL does not attach to any internal eye structures, you can not feel that it is even there! A routine, annual visit with you and our doctors is recommended to make sure everything is fine.

Can the Visian ICL be seen by the naked eye?

No. The lens is positioned behind the iris where it is invisible to both you and observers. You enjoy a cosmetic appearence that is natural. Only you and our doctors will be able to tell that vision correction has taken place.

How long does the Visian ICL stay in my eye?

The Visian ICL is intended to remain in place in the eye without maintenance. Should it become necessary, your ophthalmologist can remove the lens.

Feel free to visit the Visian ICL website for more information regarding the procedure. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 1-800-NEW-EYES.