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Woman smiling outdoors accompanying educational content on ICL Eye Surgery

ICL
Eye Surgery

Implantable Collamer Lens

For those told LASIK isn’t an option, or anyone seeking clearer vision without removing corneal tissue. ICL is a reversible lens implant designed to provide sharp, stable correction for high myopia and astigmatism. 

 

Refractive Eye Surgery now available at

The Straits Eye Centre, Camden Medical Centre.

Implantable Collamer Lens

ICL surgery involves placing a soft, biocompatible lens inside the eye, just behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. It’s a great option for individuals with high prescriptions, thinner corneas, or those seeking a reversible alternative to laser procedures. If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK or SMILE, ICL may be a suitable solution.

Is ICL the Right Fit for Your Vision?

Common Profiles for Implantable Collamer Lens

Stylish gold-rimmed eyeglasses on beige surface

High
Prescription?

ICL is designed to correct high degrees of myopia and astigmatism, including levels beyond the range of many laser procedures. A long-term solution for those with stronger prescriptions.

Doctor's Appointment

Told You Have Thin Corneas?

ICL doesn’t involve reshaping the cornea, making it a suitable option for patients who may not qualify for LASIK or SMILE.

Optometry testing glasses

Prefer a Reversible Procedure?

Unlike laser treatments, the ICL lens can be removed or replaced if needed, offering vision correction with added flexibility.

What Happens During a ICL Procedure?

A Biocompatible Lens That Sits Inside Your Eye​

ICL surgery involves placing a soft, foldable lens through a small incision, positioning it behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthetic and takes about 20 minutes.

Unlike laser procedures, ICL does not alter the shape of your cornea. Instead, it functions like a permanent contact lens inside the eye, delivering clear, high-definition vision, particularly for those with higher prescriptions.

How ICL Compares to Other Laser Procedures

Your surgeon will recommend the best option for your eyes after a full diagnostic assessment

Woman smiling outdoors accompanying educational content  on ICL vision correction

ICL

Implantable Collamer Lens

  • No laser or corneal tissue removal

  • Collamer lens placed behind the iris

  • Reversible, long-term vision correction

  • Ideal for high myopia or thin corneas

Woman smiling outdoors accompanying educational content  on SMILE laser procedure

SMILE

Small Incision Lenticule Extraction

  • Flapless laser procedure

  • ~2 mm corneal incision

  • For moderate myopia & mild astigmatism

  • Preferred by active lifestyles individuals
     

Woman smiling outdoors accompanying educational content  on PRK laser procedure

PRK

Photorefractive Keratectomy

  • Flapless, surface-based laser procedure

  • Outer corneal layer gently removed

  • Often chosen for thinner corneas

  • Recommended when LASIK or SMILE are not suitable

Women accompanying a detailed ICL eye surgery journey at TSEC

What You’ll
Experience at The Straits Eye Centre

Your ICL journey begins with a detailed diagnostic assessment, followed by a personalised consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist. Every step is designed to ensure suitability, safety, and optimal outcomes.

STEP
01

Diagnostic Assessment

Your visit begins with a full suite of advanced diagnostic tests to assess your vision, corneal structure, and overall eye health. These results guide treatment planning and ensure precise recommendations.

STEP
02

Specialist Consultation

An experienced ophthalmologist will walk you through your scans, discuss your lifestyle needs, and determine if ICL is suitable for your eyes.

STEP
03

Procedure
(If Suitable)

If you are a suitable candidate, the ICL procedure will be scheduled. The surgery typically takes 20 to 30 minutes per eye and is performed under local anaesthetic. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, which generally subsides within a day.

STEP
04

Recovery
& Ongoing Care

Post-operative care includes detailed recovery instructions, prescribed eye drops, and scheduled follow-up appointments. Our clinical team monitors your healing to ensure stability and visual clarity over time.

Frequently asked questions

YOUR
SENIOR EYE

SPECIALIST
DR JAYANT V IYER

MBBS, GDFM, MMed(Ophth), FAMS, FRCOphth

 

Spoken Languages:

English, Tamil, Basic Mandarin

Smiling doctor at his desk

Former Senior Consultant & Global Ophthalmology Lead at SNEC

Dr Jayant, formerly Senior Consultant at the Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) had also set up its Global Ophthalmology division and was Head of its Clinical & Service Quality department. He has won numerous awards for his commitment to patient-centred care and contribution to eyecare locally and globally.

Award-Winning Ophthalmologist

Dr. Lee has been recognised with multiple awards, including the Singapore Courage Fund Healthcare Humanity Award and the Young Eye Care Ambassador Award, underscoring his commitment to compassionate and innovative eye care.

YOUR
SENIOR EYE
SPECIALIST
DR JASON LEE

MBBS, BMedSc, MMed(Ophth), FAMS, FRCOphth

 

Spoken Languages:

English, Mandarin, Hokkien

Smiling doctor in blue scrubs
Group photo of TSEC Camden's eye care team

Ready for Clearer Vision?

ICL is one of several advanced refractive options available at The Straits Eye Centre, Camden Medical Centre. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision with no pressure and full clinical transparency.

All medical procedures come with risks and benefits. Always consult your ophthalmologist for a full evaluation.

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