IOL Overview

Phakic Intraocular Lens (IOL)

Phakic IOL is an implantable lens used to correct myopia or nearsightedness. The implanted lens acts like a contact lens but is inside the eye instead of on the surface like a contact lens. There are two available lens options that are FDA approved in the United States. Your surgeon will determine if you are a candidate and discuss the best option for your eyes during your refractive screening session.

Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) - the lens is place through a small incision in the eyes directly behind the iris and in front of the lens. The Visian ICL is made from soft plastic and collagen-based material that is well tolerated in the eye. It has been used safely and effectively to correct myopia between -3 diopters to -15 diopters.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• A good alternative for patients who are not eligible for laser surgery
• Corrects high nearsightedness that is out of the range of laser surgery
• Minimal postoperative discomfort
• Keeps your natural ability to accommodate (read without reading glasses)
• Reversible. The lens can be explanted.

Cons:

• More invasive than laser refractive surgery. This procedure is done in the operating room with topical and/or general anesthesia.
• Fluctuating vision for a few days after the procedure

Risk: Potentially serious adverse effects are rare:

• Undercorrection or Overcorrection
• Infection
• Cataract formation
• Endothelial cell loss - decompensation of the cornea where it becomes cloudy
• Increased eye pressure or glaucoma - usually reversible with appropriate treatment
• Retinal detachment
• Bleeding
• Adverse effect to anesthesia

Watch a video of the procedure