LASIK vs. Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)

ICL is a reversible lens implant—useful when LASIK isn’t ideal. Here’s how to compare them.

Core differences

• LASIK reshapes the cornea’s front surface to correct focus.
• ICL places a thin lens behind your iris (in front of your natural lens) to correct focus without reshaping the cornea.

When ICL is considered

• Very high prescriptions outside safe LASIK ranges
• Thin or irregular corneas where tissue preservation is critical
• Dry‑eye‑prone patients where corneal surgery could worsen symptoms

Candidacy and screening

• ICL requires adequate anterior chamber depth and a healthy eye with normal pressure dynamics.
• Your surgeon will measure internal eye dimensions and assess lens sizing.

Recovery and comfort

• LASIK: Rapid visual recovery; dryness common early.
• ICL: Typically quick visual recovery with minimal surface dryness impact; separate considerations include lens sizing and positioning.

Risks to understand

• LASIK: Dryness, halos/glare, rare flap or corneal complications.
• ICL: Intraocular procedure risks (e.g., infection inside the eye is rare but serious), pressure spikes, cataract risk over long horizons depending on design and placement.

Cost and reversibility

• ICL often costs more due to the lens implant and surgical setting. It is removable or exchangeable if needed.

Choosing between them

If your cornea is suitable and goals are straightforward, LASIK remains efficient and proven. If tissue preservation, very high prescriptions, or ocular surface issues make LASIK less ideal, ICL may deliver excellent quality with a different risk profile. Let your surgeon model both options for your eyes.