Treatment

Implantable Collamer Lens

Also known as ICL, EVO ICL, Phakic Intraocular Lens, Implantable Contact Lens, Visian ICL, Toric ICL

Updated May 16, 2026For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Implantable collamer lens surgery places a removable prescription lens inside the eye. It can correct high nearsightedness when laser vision correction is not a good fit.

An implantable collamer lens (ICL) is a thin prescription lens placed inside the eye. It sits behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It does not remove corneal tissue 1.

The FDA page for implantable collamer lens approval lists use for adults ages 21 to 45 with nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism. The page also lists important eye shape and safety limits 2.

Reviews of modern implantable collamer lens models report strong visual outcomes in well-selected eyes. Careful sizing and follow-up are important to reduce risks 3.

How It Works

An implantable collamer lens (ICL) adds a prescription lens inside the eye. The natural lens stays in place. The cornea is not reshaped.

The lens bends light so it focuses on the retina. It can also correct astigmatism when a toric model is used. The lens is intended to stay in the eye, but a surgeon can remove or exchange it if needed.

Who It Helps

Implantable collamer lens surgery is often considered when laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is not ideal.

  • Moderate to high nearsightedness.
  • Thin corneas.
  • Dry eye risk that makes corneal laser surgery less attractive.
  • Stable prescription.
  • Healthy cornea cell count.
  • Enough space in the front of the eye for the lens.

It is not used for everyone. Cataract, glaucoma, active inflammation, or unsafe eye anatomy can rule it out.

Risks and Side Effects

Good screening lowers risk, but implantable collamer lens (ICL) surgery is still surgery inside the eye.

  • Pressure rise. Eye pressure can rise early or later.
  • Cataract. The natural lens can cloud over time.
  • Wrong lens vault. A lens that sits too high or too low may need exchange.
  • Glare or halos. Night vision symptoms can happen.
  • Infection. This is rare but serious.
  • Cornea cell loss. Long-term monitoring checks the inner cornea layer.

Planning reviews emphasize careful sizing and follow-up for implantable collamer lens safety 1.

Cost and Insurance

Implantable collamer lens surgery is usually elective vision correction. Most U.S. health insurance plans do not cover it.

  • Typical quoted cost is about $4,000-$5,000 per eye.
  • The price may include measurements, surgeon fee, surgery center fee, lens, and follow-up visits.
  • Toric lenses for astigmatism may cost more.
  • Financing plans may be offered by the surgery center.

Ask for a written quote that states what is included and what happens if a lens exchange is needed.

Common Questions About Implantable Collamer Lens Surgery

The lens can be removed or exchanged by a surgeon. That does not mean the choice is risk-free.

Next Steps

  1. 1Book a refractive surgery consultation if you have moderate or high nearsightedness.
  2. 2Ask whether your cornea, chamber depth, and cornea cell count are safe for the lens.
  3. 3Compare implantable collamer lens surgery with LASIK, PRK, and SMILE for your exact prescription.
  4. 4Request a written quote that includes the lens, surgery center, follow-up, and exchange policy.
  5. 5Keep long-term annual eye exams after surgery.

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