Pros & Cons of Implantable Contact Lenses

At Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre, we lead the way in vision correction technology in Singapore. One of our groundbreaking solutions is Implantable Contact ( Collamer ) Lenses (ICLs) — a safe, tried-and-tested solution for patients who need permanent vision correction but do not wish to wear daily contact lenses or glasses. Unlike traditional corrective surgery, ICLs are inserted surgically into the eye and can potentially last for years. We have performed hundreds of ICL procedures with outstanding success, enabling patients to restore visual acuity with minimal downtime. Here’s everything you need to know about ICLs, including our thorough summary of their advantages and disadvantages.

What Are Implantable Contact Lenses?

Implantable contact lenses (ICLs) are soft, flexible lenses made of Collamer® — a collagen co-polymer with a very high degree of biocompatibility with the human eye. Unlike regular lenses that rest on the surface of your eye, ICLs are implanted between the iris and your natural lens, making them invisible and easy to use once implanted. ICLs correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia and even astigmatism in patients who are not a good candidate for LASIK or other laser surgery.

We have a complete pre-operative evaluation and advanced diagnostics in-house to determine if you would be an ideal candidate for Implantable contact lens surgery. We would, as is customary, assist you in making an educated decision, and we are committed to walking you through the procedure each step of the way.

Advantages of Implantable Contact Lenses

Several of our patients choose ICLs due to the many advantages that they present. Some of the most notable advantages we’ve seen over the years are:

1. Improved Vision Quality

ICLs offer incredibly clear and sharp vision. Since the cornea is not being contacted during surgery, the natural shape of your eye is maintained and better visual results are achieved compared with some laser treatments.

2. Painless, Quick Process

The implantable contact lens procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and is performed under topical  anesthesia. Our patients are usually surprised at how quick and simple it is. It is quick to recover from, and many are back at work or normal activities the next day.

3. No Risk of Dry Eyes

Unlike LASIK, which affects the corneal nerves, ICLs do not result in dry eye syndrome. Thus, they are a perfect option for those who have naturally dry eyes or use contact lenses on a daily basis.

4. Reversibility

One of the special benefits of ICLs is that the lens can be taken out if needed. If your eyes significantly change over time or if you want to have another procedure, the ICL can be removed safely, at any time.

5. Long-Term Comfort and Convenience

After being implanted, ICLs require no daily maintenance. No cleaning, removal, or disinfecting lenses — a godsend for so many of our hectic patients.

6. Best for High Prescriptions

Those patients who have extremely high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism often find that laser surgery like LASIK is not a possibility. ICLs offer a safe and reliable vision correction alternative in these cases.

7. Safe Material

The Collamer® material for ICLs is soft, supple, and well-tolerated by the human body. Allergic reaction, infection, or inflammation is highly unlikely.

Disadvantages of Implantable Contact Lenses

While ICLs are a wonderful option for most, we always strive to provide our patients with an equal picture. Following are some factors to bear in mind:

1. Cost

Implantable contact lens surgery is a high-end vision correction surgery. At Dr Natasha Lim Eye Centre,  ICL surgery ranges from $3,200.00  to $4,200.00 per eye, depending on complexity and type of lens. We provide transparent pricing and flexible packages at our centre, so you can expect to know what to pay.

2. Age Barriers

Implantable contact lens surgery is generally advised for adults aged between 18 and 50 years, whose prescriptions have been stable for a minimum of one year. We will carefully review your case to make sure that you are in the appropriate age group and have no contraindications.

3. Surgical Risks

While rare, there is possible side effects associated with any surgery. Side effects can include increased intraocular pressure, or night glare/halos. But with our extensive knowledge and careful surgical technique, side effects are minimal, and we do everything we can to be safe.

4. Not Covered by Insurance

Because ICLs are cosmetic or elective surgeries, they are not usually covered by insurance. We can help you find financing to make your investment in clear vision as affordable as possible.

Why Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre?

If your eyes are the concern, Deep insight matters. Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre has treated thousands of patients using modern and advanced technology, that are evidence based. Dr. Natasha Lim is a UK-trained eye specialist and one of the first users of iDesign iLASIK in Singapore, with a vast background in implantable lenses and laser eye surgery. We use  advanced diagnostic equipment in our clinic that gives excellent result reliably and repeatably, and we provide customized care at every step — from consultation to check-up visits. We’re also proud to be a Centre of Excellence for the Asia Pacific Association of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, specifically multifocal intraocular lens surgery. 

Is ICL Right for You?

ICLs are an excellent choice for those patients who would like a long-term, worry-free solution for vision problems, especially if you are not an ideal LASIK candidate. If you are interested to know more, we welcome you to schedule a comprehensive eye test at our center. Dr Natasha Lim will personally speak with you about your needs, discuss your goals, and see if ICLs are the perfect choice for you. 

Let’s Help You See Clearly

At Dr. Natasha Lim Eye Centre, we believe that the gift of sharp vision should belong to everyone. Through ICLs, LASIK, SILK and other refractive correction options, we are devoted to providing impeccable results with passion and safety. Contact us now and start living the life of visual freedom.
Visit us at Royal Square Medical Centre (Novena area), or contact +65 6570 2220 to book your appointment today.