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Augencentrum Mülheim
DE
Augencentrum Mülheim
Augencentrum Mülheim
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Treatment

ICL – implantable contact lens

An additional lens inside the eye – an option for higher refractive errors.

What is an ICL?

The ICL is a wafer-thin, very well tolerated lens that is placed additionally inside the eye – in front of your own clear lens (hence a “phakic” lens). Your natural lens is preserved, and in younger eyes the ability to focus at near remains. From the outside, the ICL is not visible.

Who might it be suitable for?

Above all with higher degrees of short-sightedness or long-sightedness, with a cornea that is too thin or irregular, and when corneal laser treatment is therefore not advisable. A spectacle prescription that has been stable for about a year is a prerequisite.

Which findings inform the decision?

Anterior chamber depth (is there enough space?), corneal endothelial cell density, corneal shape and thickness, retinal status – particularly important with high myopia – pupil size and intraocular pressure. Without this complete work-up, no statement about suitability is possible.

How does the procedure work?

As an outpatient, under local anaesthetic, through a small access incision. The folded lens is inserted and positioned inside the eye. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes; both eyes are treated at separate appointments. Afterwards you apply drops according to a schedule and attend fixed check-ups.

Advantages and limits

Advantages: the cornea remains untouched, the lens can in principle be removed again, and even high refractive errors can be corrected. Limits: it remains a procedure inside the eye; presbyopia is not corrected – reading glasses will still be needed later.

Risks & limits – said openly

A rise in pressure, irritation, changes in corneal cell count are possible, and in rare cases a clouding of your own lens (cataract) or a repositioning or exchange of the ICL. There is no guarantee of freedom from glasses – whether the procedure is suitable for you can only be shown by a personal examination.

We offer this treatment in Stadtmitte . Appointments can only be booked at these locations.

Appointment in ICL – implantable contact lens