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What Is ICL Surgery in Singapore?
ICL surgery involves placing a biocompatible lens inside the eye to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. The lens works in harmony with the eye’s natural structure, improving vision without reshaping the cornea. ICL surgery in Singapore may be suitable for individuals who are not ideal candidates for laser vision correction due to factors such as thinner corneas or higher prescriptions. A comprehensive assessment at an eye clinic in Singapore is essential to determine suitability.
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Surgery
Suitable Candidates
In Singapore, ICL surgery may be considered for individuals aged between 21 and 45 who have moderate to high myopia (up to -18.00 dioptres) or astigmatism (up to -6.00 dioptres). It is typically an option for those who are not suitable for laser refractive procedures due to thin corneas or patients with high prescriptions that are outside of the laser correction range. Patients should not have cataracts or any other eye problems that can compromise sight. It is recommended to undergo a detailed assessment to determine suitability as it is a more invasive procedure compared to its laser counterparts.
Benefits
Unlike contact lenses or spectacles, the Visian® ICL is placed inside the eye, offering a long-term correction for refractive errors. It is invisible once implanted and does not alter the cornea. The lens can also be removed or replaced if needed, giving patients an added degree of flexibility. Most people report clearer vision within the first few days following the procedure.
Procedure
ICL surgery is typically carried out under local anaesthesia with sedation. The lens is inserted through a small incision and positioned behind the iris, in front of the natural lens. The entire process usually takes around 30 minutes per eye. Post-surgery, patients are advised not to rub their eyes and will be given medicated eye drops for several weeks. Vision typically stabilises within a few days, although results can vary from person to person.
Risks and Safety Considerations
Like any eye procedure, ICL surgery may cause temporary blurred vision, dry eyes, glare, or halos. Rare risks include infection or high eye pressure. Your ophthalmologist will assess your suitability and discuss all potential risks beforehand. Results and recovery times can vary among individuals.
Recovery and Aftercare
On the day of surgery, mild discomfort and light sensitivity are common. Within one to two days, most patients can resume normal activities. After one week, vision typically begins to stabilise, and a post-operative review is scheduled around one month later to monitor healing and eye pressure. Avoid rubbing your eyes and follow the prescribed eye drop regimen carefully. Protective eyewear may be advised temporarily during recovery.
Alternatives to ICL Surgery in Singapore
While ICL surgery in Singapore may be considered for individuals with high prescriptions or thinner corneas, other vision correction methods may also be suitable depending on eye condition and personal preferences.
LASIK Surgery
LASIK reshapes the cornea using a laser to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. It is typically recommended for patients with sufficient corneal thickness.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PRK is a surface-based laser procedure that removes the corneal epithelium before reshaping the underlying tissue. It is an alternative for those unsuitable for LASIK due to thinner corneas.
Contact Lenses or Spectacles
For individuals who prefer non-surgical options, contact lenses or spectacles remain effective ways to correct vision and maintain visual comfort without undergoing a medical procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About ICL Surgery in Singapore
1. What is ICL surgery and how does it work?
Here at Nova Eye Centre, ICL surgery in Singapore involves placing a soft, biocompatible lens inside the eye to correct myopia and astigmatism. The lens helps light focus properly on the retina, improving distance vision without changing the shape of the cornea.
2. How do I know if I’m suitable for ICL surgery in Singapore?
Suitability depends on factors like your eye health, degree of myopia or astigmatism, and corneal thickness. Book a consultation with us to find out if you’re a suitable candidate.
3. Is ICL surgery permanent? Can it be reversed?
The lens is designed to stay in the eye long-term but can be removed or replaced if required. This makes ICL a reversible option for vision correction.
4. What should I expect after ICL surgery in Singapore?
Recovery is usually quick. Most patients experience improved clarity within a few days. It’s important to follow post-operative care instructions, including using medicated eye drops and avoiding eye rubbing.
5. Who performs ICL surgery at Nova Eye Centre?
To learn more about the clinical team and their qualifications, please visit our About Us page.