Previously, vision correction was impossible for patients with high-degrees of refraction or thin corneas. 

As doctors we used to feel the frustration of our patients who wanted to get rid of their thick glasses but were not suitable for LASIK. Now we can help all these patients improve their vision with ICL (Implantable Collamer Lenses). We are proud to be the pioneers to provide this technology to our patients. 

Since then, many patients enjoyed clear vision with ICL technology and we will be answering below the most frequent questions to strengthen your confidence before making a decision.

What is the nature of ICL?

Implantable Collamer Lens or ICL is a revolutionary intraocular lens that can be inserted into the eye without removing the natural lens. If you are astigmatic, short-sighted (myopia), or long-sighted (hyperopia), this lens is a great choice for you. ICL is made from Collamer which is a co-polymer that contains a small quantity of pure collagen. The lens is safe, soft, flexible, stable and biocompatible. The normal shape or health of the cornea are not changed by the ICL because it is implanted through a minuscule incision.

How does it get implanted in the eye?

The lens is made from a polymeric material that bends easily. The design is similar to the collagen found in your cornea, so it poses less risk of an adverse reaction.

During a soft lens implantation procedure, the eye surgeon makes a tiny incision in your cornea, and places the ICL inside your eye, between your iris and lens. 

ICL surgery has the advantage of delivering clear vision with a quick recovery and minimal discomfort. The procedure takes a few minutes and is done with plenty of numbing eye drops to ensure patients are comfortable the entire time.

Who can benefit from ICL surgery?

•Patients with slightly thin or irregular corneas.

•Patients with Keratoconus 

•Moderate to very high amounts of nearsightedness (myopia) and/or astigmatism.

Why is ICL safer for patients with thin corneas?

With ICL surgery the lens is implanted through a microscopic incision and does not alter the natural shape or health of the cornea. In addition, ICL does not affect corneal curvature and does not damage the cornea tissue. Therefore, ICL is a great alternative for some patients who are not suitable for LASIK because the cornea is not thick enough to be treated safely with laser eye surgery procedures. 

What is the appropriate age for ICL patients?

Ideally someone who is over 21 years old, when vision is more likely to stabilize, up to 45 years of age. Patient needs to be free from any retinal issues, Cataract, Glaucoma or eye infections.

Can this lens get dry or dirty like normal contact lenses?

ICL can’t get dry or dirty like normal contact lenses. It is carefully placed between the iris, which is the colored part of the eye, and the natural lens. 

Is ICL visible after being implanted?

The lens will not be visible. It can only be seen under the microscope by your eye doctor.

What is the recovery time?

There is a quick recovery after ICL. The doctor will give you eyedrops after the procedure. Within a week your vision will have stabilized and should have clear vision. 

At Sharif Eye Centers we are the First Eye Center in Jordan to be recognized by “Staar Technologies”, the manufacturers of ICL in Switzerland, to be experienced and qualified to provide this technology for our patients at our Implantable Contact Lenses Unit.