whatsapp

Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery - ICL

  • Home
  • Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery - ICL
Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery - ICL

Op.Dr. Diclehan

Eye Diseases

Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery - ICL

Visual impairments are among the major health problems that directly affect people’s quality of life. Today, refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are quite common. In addition to glasses and contact lenses, which have been used as solutions for many years, surgical methods are also becoming increasingly widespread. In recent years, Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery (ICL), which has frequently been mentioned, has stood out as an effective and permanent solution, especially in high-degree visual impairments that cannot be treated with laser.

In this article, you will find detailed information about what Phakic Intraocular Lens (ICL) surgery is, how it is performed, its advantages, risks, who it is suitable for, and answers to the most frequently asked questions. We will also mention the clinical experiences of Op. Dr. Diclehan, who is specialized in this field, and the approaches of his patients to this treatment.

What is Phakic Intraocular Lens?

Phakic intraocular lenses are a treatment method based on the principle of placing a second artificial lens into the eye while leaving the natural lens in place. When implanted, this lens remains permanently inside the eye and cannot be felt or seen from the outside.

This technology, called ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), is FDA-approved and is safely applied worldwide. Op. Dr. Diclehan states that this method yields highly successful results especially in individuals aged between 18 and 45 who are not suitable for laser surgery.

Who is ICL Surgery Suitable For?

Laser eye correction operations (LASIK, PRK, SMILE) may not be performed in some individuals. The main reasons include insufficient corneal thickness, abnormalities in corneal curvature, or very high levels of myopia/hyperopia. In such cases, ICL offers a safe and effective alternative.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, the following individuals may benefit from ICL surgery

  • Those with myopia between -3 and -20 diopters
  • Those with hyperopia between +1 and +10 diopters
  • Those with astigmatism between 1 and 6 diopters
  • Individuals whose corneal structure is not suitable for laser
  • Those with dry eye problems who cannot use contact lenses

ICL Surgery Procedure

A detailed eye examination is performed before the surgery. The depth of the anterior chamber of the eye, pupil size, corneal thickness, and other anatomical structures are evaluated. In suitable patients, the operation is planned. During this process, pupil-dilating drops may be used.

On the day of the operation

ICL surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia (numbing with eye drops). The procedure takes about 15–20 minutes. During the surgery, a very small incision is made in the eye, and a special foldable lens is implanted.

After surgery

Patients are usually discharged the same day and can return to their daily lives after a short rest. Mild stinging or blurriness may be felt in the first days. Vision usually clears within a few days.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that 90% of patients can return to work or daily activities the next day.

Differences Between ICL and Laser
Permanent, Reversible, and Non-Damaging to Tissue
While corneal tissue is reshaped in laser surgeries, ICL does not touch the cornea. This provides a great advantage especially for individuals at risk of developing different eye diseases in the future.

The main differences of ICL from laser are

  • It is reversible: The lens can be removed if desired
  • It does not damage corneal tissue
  • Higher prescriptions can be corrected
  • Visual quality is generally superior
  • There is less glare and halos in night vision

Advantages of ICL Surgery
High Visual Quality
Since ICL focuses light onto the retina more precisely, visual sharpness is very high. It can provide better quality vision compared to correction with glasses or contact lenses.

Low Risk of Dry Eye
Dry eye, which is frequently seen after laser operations, is almost never observed in ICL. This is a significant advantage especially for individuals who work at computers or spend long hours on screens.

Permanent and Comfortable Results
In properly selected patients, ICL provides lifelong comfort. The fact that the lens cannot be felt, cannot be noticed from the outside, and the ease of postoperative follow-up are among the reasons for preference.

Op. Dr. Diclehan states that most of his patients say, "I wish I had it done earlier" after ICL.

Possible Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, ICL surgery also has some risks. However, with an experienced surgeon and proper patient selection, these risks are extremely low. The most common complications may include

  • Increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma)
  • Cataract development (very rare)
  • Infection
  • Dislocation of the lens
  • Halos or night vision problems

Op. Dr. Diclehan states that complication rates are below 1% and most of these situations are treatable.

Frequently Asked Questions
Will I Need Glasses After ICL?
No. Most patients do not need to use glasses or lenses after ICL. However, in very rare cases, low-degree prescriptions may remain.

Is the Lens Felt in the Eye?
No. The lens placed inside the eye cannot be felt at all and is not visible from the outside.

Is ICL Permanent?
Yes. However, it can be removed if desired. In this respect, it is more advantageous compared to laser operations.

Does the Surgery Hurt?
No. Anesthesia is applied with drops before the procedure, and the patient feels nothing.

Can ICL Be Applied at Any Age?
It is generally preferred for individuals between 18–45 years. In patients over 45, since presbyopia (difficulty in near vision) may occur, evaluation is required.

ICL Experience with Op. Dr. Diclehan
Expertise, Safety, and Technology

Op. Dr. Diclehan is known for his many years of experience in eye surgery and his command of modern technology. In ICL surgery, he achieves a high success rate with personalized planning, detailed examination, and patient follow-up. Patient satisfaction rates are very high.

Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery (ICL) is a revolutionary solution for those who want to get rid of dependence on glasses and contact lenses. It offers a safe, effective, and permanent alternative for individuals who are not suitable for laser surgery. It is a valuable option for anyone who values eye health and wants to improve their quality of life.

With Op. Dr. Diclehan’s experience, ICL treatment provides the highest satisfaction rates both aesthetically and functionally.