The new reality in the sphere of vision correction is making implantable contact lenses (ICLs) become popular due to their ability to offer people who have moderate to severe myopia a long-term, effective solution. How durable is an implantable contact lens anyway, and is it as worthwhile as they claim to be? Are you considering how to utilize ICLs based on visual acuity, reversibility, or surge avoidance in corneal eye surgeries, such as LASIK? In either case, it is essential to understand the durability and dependability of ICLs. Today, we will discuss all aspects of ICLs, including their duration, ICL procedure, surgery process, and more related to the longevity of ICLs, the average cost of ICL lenses, potential problems with ICL lenses after surgery, and other relevant topics. We shall also determine what it is about permanent contact lenses that makes them suitable for long-term use. To begin with, it is important to immerse ourselves in the basics of this contemporary eye care product.

How Long Does ICL Last in Eyes?

Implantable contact lenses (ICLs) such as galaxy iol are developed as a permanent correction approach for vision. After implantation, they may stay in the eye for many decades, in most cases up to 20-30 years or more. In most situations, they are referred to as being permanent, though they can be eliminated when the need arises. Such materials from which ICLs are constructed (collamer) are biocompatible and do not degrade with time, so they are safe to keep in the eye and do not require a rapid replacement.

However, the reality is that it depends on their eye condition, age, and the development of their vision over time. An example is that, in the event the patient develops cataracts or their vision changes drastically, the lenses may require removal or replacement. However, in the majority of cases, ICLs cause no complications for decades. Through regular eye tests, their condition can be more favorably observed, ensuring a perfect vision level. This makes ICLs a desirable procedure to deal with since the former may require the latter procedure in the future, as opposed to both the daily disposable lenses and even LASIK.

Is ICL a Permanent Contact Lens Solution?

Yes, ICLs are commonly termed permanent contact lenses since they are injected within the eye, as opposed to being worn surface-wise as the ordinary contact lens. Once inserted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens of the eyes, they usually remain there forever unless there is a situation that necessitates their removal. In spite of their permanency, they are reversible as opposed to LASIK or PRK, which permanently transform the cornea.

The blend of irreversibility and reversibility best fits ICLs to those patients who seek a permanent fix, but at the same time want to have the option of removal later. Lots of patients who have ICLs in clinical practice got the procedure more than 20 years ago and have not had any problems. They also have better optical results, especially on individuals with thin corneas or high levels of myopia, where LASIK might not be applicable. However, one should keep in mind that permanent in this case means the desire to use it in the long term and does not imply a lifetime warranty without a medical examination.

What Is the ICL Surgery Process Like?

ICL surgery is a comparatively swift remedy that is asymptomatic, outpatient-based, and usually consumes 20 to 30 minutes in each eye. The surgery is normally conducted under mild sedation or local anesthesia, and, to be sure of a painless examination, patients are normally provided with numbing eye drops. A small cut is performed on the cornea, whereby the soft lens is inserted into it and placed appropriately behind the iris.

The most appealing part of performing ICL surgery is the fact that it is barely invasive. The process does not deform the cornea and involves no reshaping of the cornea, unlike LASIK. It is also relatively quick to heal, as almost all patients see better in 24-48 hours and fully recover within 1-2 weeks. On some occasions, both eyes may be treated on the same day, although most clinics favor treating the second eye after a few days.

Common Problems After ICL Surgery Explained

Although ICL surgery is safe and has high success rates, like any surgery, it is associated with certain risks. Typical side effects are dry eyes, glare, a halo around light, or a mild loss of focus during the early phase of recovery. Usually, these will abate in a matter of weeks. But in some extreme instances, some more complicated troubles may follow-there may be raised intraocular pressure, inflammation, or production of cataracts.

Patients need to be advised that after undergoing ICL surgery, they should expect a few issues, which include misalignment of the lens or infection, but this is rare if the surgery is conducted by a skilled ophthalmologist. Follow-ups are a requisite after the operation to check up on the eye pressure and state of healing, and the prescription of eye drops to avoid the possibility of inflammation or infection.

Implantable Contact Lens Price and Value Breakdown

The price of implantable contact lenses differs individually in regard to whether both eyes are being treated or not, the location, and the experience of the surgeon. Generally, in the United States, it amounts to between 3,500 and 5,000 dollars per eye. This covers the cost of the lens itself, operating charges, consultation, and after-procedure visit. Although this might be quite costly as opposed to glasses or regular contacts, it is a long-term drainage for improving vision.

Most of the patients contrast this to LASIK or PRK and discover that ICLs present a superior alternative in correcting some of the eye conditions, such as myopia or thin corneas. The price of the permanent contact lenses should also be noted, together with cost savings resulting from the fact that the individual does not require new glasses, updated prescriptions, or contact lens supplies on a yearly basis. Other clinics will provide a payment scheme or finance plans in order to make the process affordable. 

FAQs

What is the duration of ICL?

Because of its durability and design to last decades, or up to 20 to 30 years and beyond, it is claimed that it is the most durable implantable contact lens (ICL). They are supposed to be vision correction, which means that they will be permanent, though they can be removed when the need arises. Regular checkups keep them healthy, and they can check whether they are developing anything that would need replacement sometime in the future.

How much does an implantable contact lens cost?

The implantable contact lenses cost about 3,500-5,000 dollars per eye. This involves both the pre- and post-surgery. Although the divisor may appear to be costly at the beginning, it is a long-term investment that may be used to reduce frequent purchases of glasses, contact lenses, and eye check-ups.

What is the duration of the ICL procedure surgery?

The surgery for ICL lasts between 20 and 30 minutes per eye. Preparation, actual appointment, and monitoring process after surgery can span several hours. It is an outpatient procedure, i.e., you can go back home on the same day. The majority of patients report a better eyesight after the surgery in 24 to 48 hours.

Do ICL surgeries have any problems?

The majority of the patients recuperate uneventfully, and a few of them can have temporary glare, halos, or dry eyes. Uncommon problems are raised eye pressure or the development of a cataract. These issues following the ICL surgery are exceptional and could be controlled by early care and check-ups. The reputation of the experienced surgeon helps to minimize the complications.

Conclusion

I hope that this guide has allowed you to get an idea about the duration of implantable contact lenses use and the expectations one must have related to this procedure. Due to the long lifetime of the ICLs and the short duration of the surgery, it is important to take an informed decision based on the costs as well as the possible side effects. ICLs provide a very strong trifactor arrangement of clarity, convenience, and permanence, which makes it a good option for many individuals who may need prolonged correction of vision. You may be wondering about the cost of the permanent contact lenses or may be worried about ICL surgery issues; this article will present you with the light at the end of the tunnel. Visit a qualified eye surgeon and find out whether ICL is suitable for you.