Symptoms and background
The implantable contact lens (ICL) is an alternative to laser eye surgery – particularly with very high short-sightedness, a thin cornea or dry eyes.
The ICL is a thin, flexible artificial lens made of Collamer that is permanently placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. Your own lens is preserved, and the ICL can be removed again if necessary.
The method is suitable, among other things, for short-sightedness of around –10 to around
–18 dioptres, for astigmatism of around 6 dioptres (toric ICL) and for patients for whom a laser procedure is not an option.
What modern medicine can do
Lens implantation (ICL) is a globally established procedure for correcting high refractive errors. It does not alter the cornea and is reversible.
Current models such as the EVO+ ICL have a central hole, which usually means no additional laser pre-treatment is required. This improves the circulation of the fluid inside the eye and the tolerability of the lens.
The procedure is carried out on an outpatient basis and takes about 15 to 20 minutes per eye. Many patients already see noticeably more sharply the next day.
Strengths of Argus Augenklinik
ICL
The current generation with a central hole – no additional laser pre-treatment, for optimal tolerability
Reversible
The lens can be removed or replaced if needed
Suitable for high dioptres
Correction up to around –18 dioptres – even with a thin cornea
Accommodation preserved
The natural lens is preserved – your near vision remains untouched
Excellent quality of vision
Clear sight, good contrast perception and night vision
Treatment process
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Preliminary examination & suitability assessment
We measure the relevant parameters of your eye such as anterior chamber depth, corneal thickness, pupil size and refraction, and check whether an ICL is suitable for you. -
Ordering your custom-made ICL
We determine the right lens size and order your individually manufactured ICL. Delivery takes two to three weeks. -
Implantation
We insert the lens on an outpatient basis and under local anaesthetic. The procedure is carried out through a small incision of about 3 mm and takes around 15 to 20 minutes per eye. -
Check-up the following day
We check your vision, intraocular pressure and the position of the lens. -
Long-term aftercare
With check-ups after one week, one month, six months, one year and annually thereafter, we support you well beyond the procedure and remain your point of contact.
Frequently asked questions
Does health insurance cover the costs?
Basic insurance does not cover the costs. Some supplementary insurance policies contribute – please check in advance.
How long does the ICL last?
The lens is designed to last a lifetime. Long-term studies over 15 years show excellent stability and safety.
Who is the ICL suitable for?
For patients from about the age of 21 with high short-sightedness, a thin cornea or dry eyes, for whom a laser procedure is not suitable.
Is the ICL permanent?
It is designed as a permanent solution, but can be removed or replaced if necessary – for example, if a cataract is treated later on.
Will I feel the lens in my eye?
No – the ICL is so thin that it is not noticeable in the eye. Most patients soon forget that they have a lens in their eye at all.