Implantable Collamer Lens

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ICL stands for Implantable Collamer Lens. It is a type of implantable lens used for vision correction. The ICL is made of a biocompatible material called collamer, which is a combination of a collagen-based material and a silicone-based material. It is designed to be implanted inside the eye, specifically between the iris and the natural lens.

ICL is primarily used to correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. It works by enhancing the eye's focusing power, providing clearer and sharper vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses, ICL is a permanent implant that does not require daily removal and cleaning.

ICL Procedure

The entire ICL implantation surgery is typically completed within one hour. The use of local anesthesia may cause slight discomfort during the procedure.

Step 1: Administration of local anesthesia eye drops.

Step 1: Administration of local anesthesia eye drops.
Step 2: Creation of a small incision above or below the eye.

Step 2: Creation of a small incision above or below the eye.

Step 3: Implantation of the ICL lens between the eye's natural crystalline lens and the iris.

Step 3: Implantation of the ICL lens between the eye's natural crystalline lens and the iris.
Step 1: Administration of local anesthesia eye drops.

Step 1: Administration of local anesthesia eye drops.
Step 2: Creation of a small incision above or below the eye.

Step 2: Creation of a small incision above or below the eye.
Step 3: Implantation of the ICL lens between the eye's natural crystalline lens and the iris.

Step 3: Implantation of the ICL lens between the eye's natural crystalline lens and the iris.

Features of ICL

  • Suitable for myopia up to -18.00 diopters, hyperopia up to +10.00 diopters, and astigmatism up to 6.00 diopters.
  • Reversible procedure, as the physician can remove or replace the intraocular lens (IOL) if needed.
  • Does not require corneal cutting or reshaping.

Comparing different vision correction surgeries

After undergoing the preoperative eye examination, the doctor will determine the suitable surgical options for you. You can also discuss with the doctor to make a decision together.

SMILE PRO SMILE LASIK ICL
Degree of correction Up to -10.00 diopters of myopia
Up to -5.00 diopters of astigmatism		 Up to -15.00 diopters of myopia
Up to +6.00 diopters of hyperopia
Up to +6.00 diopters of astigmatism 		Up to -18.00 diopters of myopia
Up to +10.00 diopters of hyperopia
Up to +6.00 diopters of astigmatism
Technique Cornea cutting; no need for cornea flap creation Creation of corneal flap, followed by laser reshaping of the corneal inner layer beneath the flap Implantation of ICL lens between the eye's natural crystalline lens and iris
Surgical duration 5 minutes per eye 10 minutes per eye 10-15 minutes per eye
Laser procedure time 10 seconds per eye 25 seconds per eye I. Corneal flap creation: approximately 10 seconds
II. Corneal reshaping (depending on the degree): 10-30 seconds 		NA
Size of incision 2-4mm Approximately 20mm Approximately 3mm
Postoperative dry eye condition Slight Mild Slight
Natural cornea healing time Several days Several weeks Several days
Chance of cornea flap displacement None, no need for cornea flap creation Yes None, no need for cornea flap creation
Odor produced during the surgical procedure None Slight burning odor None

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (determined by Doctor)

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) is a surgical technique used to enhance corneal strength in the treatment of corneal deformities and weakening conditions, primarily for the management of keratoconus.

Conventional laser refractive surgeries can weaken the cornea. However, the enhanced versions (Xtra) of LASIK Xtra and SMILE Xtra surgeries are specifically designed for individuals with higher refractive errors and thinner corneas. These procedures utilize cross-linking techniques to strengthen the cornea's collagen structure, thereby consolidating the refractive correction outcomes.

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) Procedure:

  1. Administer topical anesthesia eye drops.
  2. Apply a special solution of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) onto the cornea as a supplement.
  3. Expose the cornea to ultraviolet light to activate the vitamin B2.
  4. The procedure typically takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for ICL

In general, if you fulfill the requirements below, you are a suitable candidate:

  • Suitable for adults aged between 21 and 45 years.
  • Good overall health: No eye conditions that could be affected by illness and no ocular disorders that could impact wound healing.
  • Stable vision over the past year, with no significant changes in the prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
  • Adequate corneal thickness: ICL surgery requires sufficient corneal thickness to accommodate the implantation of the lens. The doctor will assess your corneal thickness through corneal measurements to determine if it meets the required standards.


To find out if ICL is suitable for you, you should have a comprehensive eye examination by our ophthalmologist. During the examination, we will give you more specific information and answer any questions you may have.

Prepare for ICL

  • To schedule an eye examination prior to the surgery (approximately 2 hours), please click here.
  • If the doctor determines that you are suitable for the procedure, you can then schedule a surgery appointment.
  • Before the eye examination and ICL surgery, it is necessary to discontinue wearing contact lenses:
    - Soft lens wearers should stop wearing them three to seven days prior.
    - Rigid or gas-permeable lens wearers should stop wearing them one to two weeks prior.

Make an Appointment

You are welcome to attend our public free seminar to learn more about laser vision correction surgery before undergoing the preoperative examination and assessment. Please call 8166 1111 for more information or register for the "Free Vision Correction Seminar" by clicking here.