Jesse Panthagani — Leading Eye Surgeon
Conditions

Implantable contact lens (ICL)

For patients whose prescriptions or corneas aren't suited to laser surgery, an ICL offers permanent, high-quality vision correction — without altering the cornea.

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An active young adult enjoying sport without glasses or contact lenses

A permanent lens, designed for you

An ICL is a tiny, biocompatible lens implanted just behind the iris, in front of the natural lens. It works like a contact lens — but because it sits inside the eye, you never feel it, never need to clean it, and never replace it.

ICLs can correct very high levels of short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism where laser surgery isn’t the right option. They are also fully reversible — the lens can be removed if your vision changes in the future.

A young adult who could be an ideal candidate for an implantable contact lens

Who's a good candidate?

ICLs are particularly suited to adults aged 21–45 with stable, higher prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eye. We’ll do detailed imaging and measurements at consultation to confirm suitability.

The procedure itself takes about 15 minutes per eye under local anaesthetic, with vision usually crisp within a day.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is an ICL?
An implantable contact lens (ICL) is a tiny, biocompatible lens placed permanently inside the eye, just behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. It works like a contact lens you never have to touch — you can’t feel it, you don’t clean it, and it doesn’t need replacing. Unlike laser surgery, it doesn’t remove or reshape any corneal tissue.
How is an ICL different from laser eye surgery?
Laser surgery reshapes the cornea; an ICL adds a corrective lens inside the eye and leaves the cornea untouched. That makes ICLs ideal for people who aren’t suited to laser — very high prescriptions, thinner corneas, or persistent dry eye. A key advantage is that the lens is removable: if your needs change in the future, it can be taken out or exchanged.
Am I a good candidate?
ICLs particularly suit adults roughly 21–45 with a stable prescription, especially those with higher degrees of short-sightedness, thinner corneas or dry eyes that make laser less ideal. Detailed imaging and measurements at your consultation confirm whether the anatomy of your eye is suitable.
What does the procedure involve?
It’s a short, comfortable day-case procedure under local anaesthetic — about 15 minutes per eye. A tiny, self-sealing incision is made, the folded lens is inserted and gently positioned behind the iris, and you go home the same day. Most people notice clear vision within a day.
Will I be able to feel the lens?
No. The ICL sits inside the eye where you can’t feel it and others can’t see it. It doesn’t move, dry out or need any day-to-day care.
Is the procedure reversible?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages of an ICL is that it’s fully reversible — the lens can be removed or exchanged if your vision changes or if you later opt for a different treatment, such as lens-replacement surgery as you get older.
What prescriptions can an ICL correct?
ICLs can correct very high levels of short-sightedness and long-sightedness, and toric versions also correct astigmatism — often beyond the range where laser surgery is appropriate.
How safe is it, and what's the recovery like?
ICL surgery is well established with an excellent safety record when performed by an experienced surgeon. Recovery is quick — most people return to normal activities within a few days, following simple aftercare with drops. Mr Panthagani will go through the risks and benefits with you in full at your consultation.

Wondering if an ICL is right for you?

Take our suitability quiz or book a consultation to find out.

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