For years, the only method of permanent vision correction that didn’t involve glasses or contact lenses was corrective laser eye surgery. With the advent of the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL), there is a new option to correct myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). The ICL is designed to be permanently implanted inside the eye behind the iris (colored portion of the eye), but resting in front of the natural crystalline lens. The lens cannot be felt inside the eye and does not require maintenance.

Dr. DiStefano is qualified Visian ICL eye surgeon, trained in the insertion of Visian Implantable Collamer Lenses. The ICL is inserted during a short outpatient procedure. A small incision is made on the far edge of the cornea and the foldable ICL is inserted. Once the lens is implanted, sutures are typically not needed to close the incision, simplifying the procedure and recovery.

After the procedure, vision often improves instantly, though you may have a feeling of mild scratchiness. Most people are able to resume driving and return to work within a day. A series of follow-up visits with the doctor are also required.

Visian® Implantable Collamer Lens The Visian® ICL provides vision correction that goes beyond LASIK. It helps you enjoy sharper, clearer, and more vivid vision, with greater depth and dimension. It’s called High Definition Visian, and it’s available only with the Visian ICL.

Because the ICL is implanted in the posterior chamber, behind the iris, the lens is invisible to both the patient and any observer. Its positioning in the eye maintains normal iris function, promotes stability, and may reduce potential complications. Another advantage of ICL is that, while it can permanently correct your vision, in the unlikely event that you experience negative side effects after surgery, the lens can be removed and/or replaced if necessary. The ICL advanced lens material contains a UV blocker that can prevent harmful UVA and UVB rays from entering the eye, possibly avoiding the development of UV related eye disorders.

As with any surgical procedure, complications are rare, but can occur after implantation of IOLs. The staff at DiStefano Eye Center will discuss your options, the procedure and possible risks during your initial appointment. The best candidates for IOL have moderate to high myopia or hyperopia, be over the age of 21 and in good health.

For an appointment, call DiStefano Eye Center at (423) 648-3937. Or Click Here to contact us online.