Implantable Contact Lenses (for shortsight, longsight & astigmatism)

Surgically implanted lenses, also called phakic IOLs (intraocular lenses), are an alternative option to high correction spectacles for people seeking a permanent correction for high degrees of long or short sightedness.

The implants, which resemble contact lenses, are placed between the clear front covering of the eye (cornea) and the iris (coloured portion of the eye) or just behind the iris.

Implantable lenses are a surgical alternative to LASIK. LASIK is not advisable for people requiring very high prescription spectacles or for those who do not meet recommended criteria ( i.e cornea too thin).

A key advantage to ICL implantation however is that the lens can usually be removed, and for this reason the procedure is often termed ‘ reversible’.

Unlike tradional cataract or clear lens extraction (PRELEX) surgery the natural lens remains in place and the new lens is placed in front of the natural lens.