Premium lens implants for high prescriptions without removing your natural lens
Implantable phakic lenses, often referred to as ICLs (implantable contact lenses or implantable collamer lenses), are premium lens implants placed inside the eye in front of the natural lens to correct high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Unlike refractive lens exchange, your natural lens is preserved, which means your ability to focus is maintained - making this an excellent option for younger patients with very high prescriptions.
At Vale Eye Surgeons, phakic lens surgery is performed by a consultant ophthalmologist with specialist fellowship training and significant experience in refractive surgery, ensuring precise lens sizing and positioning.
A soft, biocompatible lens is folded and inserted through a small incision at the edge of the cornea. Once inside the eye, the lens unfolds and is positioned in the space between the iris and the natural lens. It is invisible from the outside and cannot be felt by the patient. The correction is immediate, precise, and fully reversible - the lens can be removed or replaced if required in the future.
A comprehensive assessment including corneal topography, anterior segment imaging, and detailed biometric measurements to select the correct lens size. Your surgeon will confirm your suitability and discuss the procedure in detail.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, taking 15-20 minutes per eye. We typically perform same-day bilateral surgery - treating both eyes during the same visit - to allow for a more balanced and convenient recovery. You will be awake but comfortable throughout.
Most patients notice sharp, clear vision within 24 hours. You will use eye drops for several weeks and attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and intraocular pressure. Normal activities can usually be resumed within a few days.
Phakic lenses are ideal for patients with high prescriptions that fall outside the safe range for laser vision correction, or for those with thin corneas or dry eye that makes laser treatment unsuitable. They are typically offered to patients aged 21-60 with a stable prescription. Your surgeon will give you an honest comparison of phakic lenses, laser vision correction, and refractive lens exchange so you can choose the option that best fits your eyes and lifestyle.