What Is The Difference Between Lasik & ICL Surgery?

Recent technological developments in the field of refractive surgery have enabled more people than ever before to be able to undergo some form of procedure to correct or improve their vision. However, with access to so many different options, it can be difficult to know which procedure to choose. This blog post explores two of the most popular surgeries, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) and Lasik eye surgery, to help you determine which procedure will be best suited to you.

What is Lasik eye surgery?

Today, Lasik eye surgery is by far the most common treatment option for those seeking refractive surgery. In fact, innovative technology like iLasik has increased the accuracy of the procedure and it can now be completed without the use of blades or needles.

Before undergoing the surgery, 3-D mapping technology captures the patient’s unique refractive signature, allowing for more personalised and precise results. After the eyes have been scanned, advanced lasers will be used to first create a tiny, micro-thin flap in the outer layer of the cornea of the eye and then reshape the corneal surface. Pain-free, US FDA approved and requiring minimal recovery time, Lasik eye surgery is typically completed within just 20 minutes for both eyes.

The downside to Lasik eye surgery

While both iLasik and Lasik eye surgery can be used to treat a broad range of vision imperfections like mild to severe nearsightedness, farsightedness and all types of astigmatism, it’s not necessarily suited to everyone. To be a candidate, you must be over 18, have a stable prescription and otherwise healthy eyes. While Lasik eye surgery will often take first preference for many doctors and their patients, those with higher prescriptions may not be eligible.

Why choose ICL eye surgery?

Patients with extreme short-sightedness (Myopia) or long-sightedness (Hypermetropia) may not be able to have 100% of their script treated with Lasik eye surgery.  There are dual concerns at play here.  We prefer to preserve the natural shape of the cornea as much as possible, and not alter the thickness too excessively, to ensure an optimal  outcome.  In these cases, patients may be better served to have the ICL eye surgery, as it involves a simple lens insertion, whilst leaving the eyes essentially unaltered.  Another very popular reason for choosing the ICL eye surgery over Lasik eye surgery is that it is reversible.  ICL eye surgery involves the implantation of an artificial collamer lens behind the iris, offering a permanent alternative to regular contact lenses. A small incision is made at the side of the eye, leaving the eye’s real lens intact for natural-looking results. ICL eye surgery is approved by regulatory authorities and is usually suitable for those under the age of 40 without cataracts.

ICL eye surgery versus Lasik

When deciding between iLasik and ICL surgery, it is important to be properly informed of the benefits and risks associated with each procedure. Because ICL surgery involves penetrating the cornea with micro incisions to allow access for the placement of the lens behind the coloured part of our eyes, it is considered as a minimally, but invasive surgical procedure.  It carries slightly greater risks than Lasik. However, while ICL eye surgery is more invasive than Lasik eye surgery, laser eye procedures are also not completely risk-free, with common short term side-effects including dry eyes, halos and glare which may impact your ability to drive at night.  These resolve for the majority of the patients in a couple of weeks’ time.

Ultimately, most doctors will suggest Lasik over ICL eye surgery due to the lower risk profile, unless the patient is not deemed to be a suitable candidate. If this is the case, ICL will offer an appropriate solution as long as the patient accepts the potential risks involved and has the right kind of ocular anatomy. To accurately determine whether ICL or Lasik eye surgery is best for you, you will need to have your eye examined by a professional.

Ready to get started?

At George Street Sydney Eye Laser Surgery, renowned specialist ophthalmologist Dr Con Moshegov will work with you to discover the most suitable method for your specific requirements. Dr Moshegov will create a personalised treatment plan including before and after-care following your ICL or Lasik eye surgery. To book your consultation, be sure to contact our reputable team today.