For those who would want something better than normal glasses or laser eye surgery, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) can be a viable solution. These advanced lenses treat vision problems such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism without eliminating the eye’s own natural crystalline lens. If you are weighing the possibility of ICL in Singapore, here is …
For those who would want something better than normal glasses or laser eye surgery, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) can be a viable solution. These advanced lenses treat vision problems such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism without eliminating the eye’s own natural crystalline lens. If you are weighing the possibility of ICL in Singapore, here is an ultimate guide to assist you in making an informed choice.
Learning About Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL)
Implantable Contact Lenses, also known as Implantable Collamer Lenses, are thin biocompatible lenses implanted within the eye to enhance vision. Unlike the traditional contact lenses, which are simply placed over the eye surface, ICLs are surgically implanted in front of the natural lens but behind the iris, thus providing a permanent remedy for vision correction. The operation is suitable for individuals who may not be eligible for LASIK or other forms of laser eye surgery.
Essential Things to Take into Consideration While Selecting ICL in Singapore
Appropriate Suitability for ICL Surgery
Before making the decision to undergo ICL, you need to identify if you are a good fit. Suitable patients for ICL surgery are generally:
- Afflicted by myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, which is of a severe to moderate nature.
- Are between 21 and 45 years of age.
- Have stable vision (no significant change in the prescription in the past year).
- Do not have a history of eye diseases such as glaucoma or severe dry eye syndrome.
A consultation with Dr. Natasha Lim, will establish your suitability for the procedure.
Pre-ICL Evaluation
Pre-ICL evaluation is an essential component of the process. Evaluation involves:
- Comprehensive eye test: To check the health of the eyes, corneal thickness, and intraocular pressure.
- Prescription stability test: To ensure that your vision has remained stable for at least a year.
- Corneal shape analysis: To assess the appropriateness of lens positioning.
Contact lens wearers must discontinue wearing lenses before examination – 5 days for soft lenses and 2 weeks for hard lenses to ensure accurate readings.
Choosing the Right ICL Type
ICLs come in various types to treat various vision needs:
- Standard ICL: Treats myopia and hyperopia.
- Toric ICL: For individuals with astigmatism.
- Phakic IOLs with UV protection: Offers additional eye protection from harmful ultraviolet light.
Your eye physician will recommend the most appropriate ICL type based on your prescription and eye anatomy.
The ICL Surgery Process
After pre-examination and the right ICL selection, the next step will be the actual surgery at Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre. ICL surgery is performed with utmost attention to detail to achieve the best possible result.
Step 1: Pre-Surgical Preparation
- Operations are done between Mondays and Fridays, preferably in the morning.
- Anesthetic drops are put in the eyes to render them insensitive, and thus painless.
- A small incision is given in the cornea to provide space for the lens implant.
Step 2: Implantation of ICL
- The Implantable Contact Lens is inserted with great care between the iris and the natural lens.
- The cut heals on its own without stitches.
- The procedure is completed within 20-30 minutes in each eye.
Step 3: Recovery after Surgery
- Patients experience pain after surgery but it disappears after a few hours.
- You need to use a prescribed set of eye drops to prevent infection and aid healing.
- Patients must attend follow-up clinics after 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month post-surgery to track recovery.
Advantages of Getting ICL in Singapore
Having ICL has many advantages, making it the first choice for most patients:
- Quality vision correction: Offers clear and distinct vision with few side effects.
- Biocompatibility: Made of Collamer, a material well tolerated by the eye.
- Reversibility: In contrast to LASIK, ICL can be taken out or replaced if needed.
- UV Protection: Shields eyes against harmful UV rays, reducing long-term eye damage.
Thin Corneas: Ideal for patients who are not candidates for laser eye surgery.
Why Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre for ICL Singapore?
Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre is a state-of-the-art vision correction surgery in Singapore. The patient is handled from consultation through post-op follow-up with the latest technology and one-to-one care.
If you are looking for a doctor for your cataract surgery or considering Implantable Contact Lenses surgery, schedule a consultation today to explore your options and take the first step toward clearer vision.
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