Intraocular Contact Lens

If you’re looking for a long-term solution to poor eyesight that’s maintenance-free and virtually invisible, consider intraocular contact lens placement at Eye Care & Surgery. These biocompatible lenses provide clear, lasting vision without the daily hassle of external contact lenses or glasses. Our experienced ophthalmologists offer this advanced treatment at three convenient locations: in Washington Heights, Manhattan; near the Grand Concourse in the Bronx, directly across from Yankee Stadium; and in New Rochelle, just minutes from downtown and near New Rochelle High School. Schedule your consultation online or call your nearest Eye Care & Surgery location today.

What is an intraocular contact lens (ICL)?

ICLs are artificial lenses surgically implanted in the eye to correct your vision. They’re also known as phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) or implantable contact lenses.

These remarkable lenses correct:

• Nearsightedness
• Farsightedness
• Astigmatism

These lenses are an excellent option if you need help to see but don’t want to wear glasses. They are placed in front of your natural lens and behind the iris to improve your eye’s function. Due to this positioning, they remain in place without maintenance.

What are the benefits of intraocular contact lenses?

In addition to anyone looking for an alternative to eyeglasses, the Eye Care & Surgery specialists may recommend ICLs if you have dry eyes or thin corneas.

They give you stable and clear vision, particularly at high prescriptions, and don’t require maintenance. ICLs are also reversible — the team can remove or replace them if you want a change. They are made of biocompatible material, so you heal quickly and avoid irritation.

Am I a candidate for intraocular contact lenses?

If you’re myopic (nearsighted) and between 21-45 years old, you may be a good candidate. An ICL may not be best for you if you have a history of eye diseases, such as:

• Iritis
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic retinopathy

If you are pregnant or nursing, you’ll need to postpone an ICL implantation.

What happens during intraocular contact lens placement?

A week before your surgical procedure, your ophthalmologist makes a small incision to let fluid pass between the lens and the front chamber of your eye. This prevents a buildup of intraocular pressure after surgery.

The placement procedure is outpatient and takes only about 15 minutes. Your provider uses a local or light topical aesthetic, and you can also request a mild sedative.

What happens after intraocular contact lens placement?

Your provider checks your intraocular pressure a few hours after surgery and ensures the lens is correctly positioned. You’ll typically have follow-up visits the day after your surgery, at the one-month mark, and after six months.

Your ICL is invisible to others, and since it doesn’t interact with the eye’s structures, you don’t feel it. You can enjoy improved vision without maintenance or any noticeable change.

To talk to the team about intraocular contact lenses, call the Eye Care & Surgery office nearest you or book an appointment online today.