Busting the Myths Around ICL Surgery: What You Must Know Before You Decide
ICL Surgery Myths Debunked | Best Eye Hospital for ICL in India
Discover the truth about ICL surgery. Bust common myths and find out why our hospital is the top choice for ICL vision correction in India.
Introduction
ICL surgery, or Implantable Collamer Lens surgery, has emerged as a revolutionary solution for high myopia and refractive errors. Still, many patients hesitate due to misconceptions or misinformation online. Whether you searched for "Is ICL safe?", "ICL surgery side effects", or "ICL vs LASIK", you’re not alone.
In this blog, we’re going to:
- • Bust the most common myths about ICL eye surgery.
- • Answer the most frequently asked questions.
- • Share why our eye hospital is India’s most trusted centre for ICL and refractive surgeries.
What Is ICL Surgery?
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a refractive surgery procedure where a biocompatible lens is implanted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It corrects high myopia, astigmatism, and sometimes hyperopia, offering crystal-clear, sharp vision—without removing corneal tissue.
Top 7 Myths About ICL Surgery – Debunked
🔍 Myth 1: ICL is only for people who can’t get LASIK
Reality: While ICL is ideal for people not
suitable for LASIK due to thin corneas or high numbers, it’s also a premium
vision correction choice for those who want reversible, high-definition vision.
🔍 Myth 2: ICL is a permanent implant—you can never remove
it
Reality: ICL lenses are reversible and
removable. If required, they can be taken out or exchanged safely.
🔍 Myth 3: ICL is dangerous and has more complications
Reality: ICL has an excellent safety record,
with millions of implants worldwide. When performed by an experienced refractive
surgeon, the risk of complications is minimal.
🔍 Myth 4: ICL causes cataracts
Reality: While older ICL designs had a slightly higher
cataract risk, modern ICL models with central port technology (like EVO ICL)
significantly reduce this risk and allow natural fluid flow in the eye.
🔍 Myth 5: You can’t drive or work for weeks after ICL
Reality: Most patients resume work within 2–3
days, and visual recovery is rapid, often achieving 20/20 vision within 24–48
hours.
🔍 Myth 6: ICL needs a large incision
Reality: ICL is done through a micro-incision, typically less
than 3mm, which is self-sealing and doesn’t need stitches.
🔍 Myth 7: ICL is not worth the cost
Reality: While ICL may cost more than LASIK, it offers
superior quality vision, UV protection, and does not alter the cornea. It’s a
long-term investment in your eyes, especially for patients with high power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ICL Surgery
1. Who is the ideal candidate for ICL surgery?
• Age between 21–45 years
• Stable refractive error for a year
• Moderate to high myopia (up to -20D), astigmatism, or hyperopia
• Not suitable for LASIK due to thin corneas
2. Is ICL surgery painful?
Not at all. The procedure is painless, done under topical or local anaesthesia, and completed in 15–20 minutes per eye.
3. How soon will I see clearly after ICL?
Most patients notice dramatic improvement in vision within 24 hours post-surgery.
4. Is ICL visible to others?
No. The lens is invisible as it’s placed behind the iris. No one can tell you’ve had an ICL unless you tell them.
5. What is the cost of ICL surgery in India?
Depending on the lens model (e.g., EVO ICL, toric ICL) and hospital, the cost
typically ranges from ₹75,000 to ₹1.25 lakhs per eye.
6. Can ICL correct cylindrical power or astigmatism?
Yes, Toric ICL lenses are available for correcting both myopia and astigmatism.
7. Is ICL better than LASIK?
Both are excellent procedures. However, ICL is ideal for patients with high numbers, dry eyes, or thin corneas, and offers superior contrast and quality.
