Rediscover Clear Vision with Implantable Contact Lenses

Implantable Contact Lenses for vision correction, otherwise known as Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) from EVO Visian ICL are micro-thin lenses placed inside the eye to correct short-sightedness (myopia), far-sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

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What are Implantable Collamer Lenses?

Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs) are a long-term vision correction solution for people who have been told they are not suitable for laser eye surgery. Unlike regular contact lenses that sit on the surface of the eye, ICLs are placed inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of your natural lens – and you won’t be able to see or feel them once in place.

ICLs are an “additive” treatment. This means that no tissue is removed during the procedure, and the lens can be removed or replaced by your consultant at a later date, if needed. This makes it a reversible option – something that laser eye surgery cannot offer.

Who is suitable for Implantable Contact Lenses?

Suitability for Implantable Collamer Lens surgery is best determined at consultation where a thorough eye examination backed up with specific tests and measurements of eye dimensions. Generally the procedure is suitable for those with a stable prescription who are shortsighted from -0.50 to -18.00, farsightedness from +0.50 to +10.00, with astigmatism from 6.00D in those aged between 21 and 60 years old.

ICL might be right for you if:

You have high prescriptions (shortsightedness or longsightedness)
You’ve been told you’re not suitable for laser eye surgery
You suffer from dry eyes, have thin or irregular corneas, keratoconus, or have had a corneal transplant

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Special Characteristics

If you are looking for a long-term solution to improve your vision without the need for glasses or traditional contact lenses, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) could be the perfect option for you. This advanced procedure offers a range of benefits that can enhance your quality of life, from clearer vision to a more comfortable, maintenance-free experience.

Additive, Removable Procedure

Unlike laser surgery, ICL is a reversible procedure. If needed, the lens can be removed or replaced by your consultant in the future, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

Preserves Your Natural Corneal Structure

With ICL, your cornea stays intact. There’s no thinning or reshaping, which means your eyes remain in their natural state while still providing you with improved vision.

Ideal for Those Unsuitable for Laser Surgery

If you’ve struggled with dry eyes or were told by a surgeon that you are not a candidate for laser surgery, ICL could be the perfect option for you. It works well for those with various eye conditions, offering clearer vision without the usual side effects of laser treatments.

Invisible and Maintenance-Free

Once the lens is implanted, you won’t see or feel it. It’s a completely hassle-free solution, so you can go about your daily life without worrying about caring for the lens. At Centre for Sight, we advise however that ALL patients to be seen annually by ourselves or other surgeons well versed with EVO Visian ICL surgery.

A Long-Term Solution with Proven Results

ICL is a trusted, long-term vision solution with a proven global track record of over 20 years. Many patients enjoy excellent vision for decades after the procedure.

Over 800,000 Lenses Implanted Worldwide

With over 800,000 ICLs implanted worldwide, this treatment is a safe and well-established option for improving vision, backed by a large number of successful patient outcomes on a global scale.

Why Choose Centre for Sight?

Trust Centre for Sight — the UK’s leading clinic of excellence, dedicated to providing you with premium eye care. Here are a few reasons why you should choose us:

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Vision Correction Surgery	Centre for Sight	Other
Laser Cataract? For precision and safety		?
Sedation Included - Intravenous		?
High Performance Lenses - To reduce/eliminate the need for glasses		?
Tailor-made/ Customised - care for each patient and each eye		?
24/7 Emergency Contact		?
Where eye surgeons go for their Cataract Surgery		?
Long track record - Est. 1996		?
Daily Mail list of UK Top Surgeons		?
Ophthalmologist Power List 100		?
Trouble-shooters - problems from elsewhere		?

Price of Implantable Contact Lens Surgery

The cost of Implantable Contact Lens surgery at Centre for Sight typically ranges from £3,714 to £4,074 per eye, depending on the complexity and the type of lens required.

At Centre for Sight, we offer flexible financing options up to 24 months, to ensure you receive the care you need without financial burdens.

Book a free consultation to learn more about pricing and financing options available to you.

*Please note, Professor Tom Williamson’s fees may differ from Centre for Sight’s pricing.

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Patient Journey

Consultation

During your initial consultation, our team of experts and your chosen consultant will carry out an in-depth eye examination using the latest diagnostic equipment. We’ll evaluate your vision and discuss your lifestyle, which will help us recommend the most effective eyecare options tailored to your unique needs and enable you to make a fully informed decision.

If you are lucky enough to be suitable for Implantable Collamer Lens surgery and wish to proceed, you will need to confirm a date and pay a deposit for the lenses which will have to be ordered from the manufacturer Staar Inc. in Switzerland. If you have astigmatism or keratoconus, special bespoke lenses may have to be made for you and these can take about 6 weeks to manufacture (sometimes longer depending on the prescription).

Personalised Treatment Plan

We provide personalised eye treatment tailored to your unique visual needs, ensuring optimal care and transparent, evidence-based procedures. Before surgery, our team will guide you through every stage of your journey, including post-operative care and eye drop use. You will have plenty of opportunity to ask any questions.

Your Procedure

Upon arrival, our skilled team will welcome you and ensure you are comfortable. During your procedure, your expert surgeon will guide you through each step, keeping you calm and reassured. You should expect some initial blurred vision post-surgery, therefore we advise that you arrange transport and refrain from driving until your vision is clear.

The procedure involves folding the lens in a lens insertion device and implanting the curled up lens through a tiny incision (2.8mm). The lens is then positioned behind the iris and rotated into the correct position if an implant for astigmatism is used (Toric EVO ICL). Medication to constrict the pupil may be inserted as well as antibiotics to prevent infection.

One hour later you will be examined to check your vision and pressure. The surgeon will also examine the eye to make sure all is well before you go home. You will be seen again the following day. To help the eye heal, steroid and antibiotic eye drops will need to be taken four times daily decreasing by one drop each week.

Aftercare

With our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology, you may experience improved vison as soon as the next day, depending on your procedure. Our comprehensive aftercare includes follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health and vision. Our dedicated team is always available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.

While the vast majority of patients are absolutely thrilled with their visual outcome, for a very small number obtaining good vision can be quite a shock and also different from vision with glasses and contact lenses.

This initial change is something that eventually all patients adapt to and are ultimately thrilled with their visual freedom. We understand all patients are different and respond differently and at Centre for Sight we pride ourselves in looking after our patients well. Click here for instructions on your Implantable Contact Lens aftercare.

Click here to learn more about Implantable Contact Lens surgery aftercare.

FAQs

Is ICL surgery painful?

Not at all. As the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable it is.

Can the lens be removed in future?

Yes – one of the key benefits of ICL is that it’s additive. This means that it is a reversible procedure and the lens can be removed by your surgeon at any time.

How long does the procedure take?

The surgery typically takes 15–20 minutes per eye, and recovery is usually quick.

Will I be able to feel the lens in my eye?

No – the lens sits behind the iris and cannot be seen or felt.

Is ICL suitable for me if I’ve been told I’m not a candidate for laser eye surgery?

Very likely – especially if you have dry eyes, thin corneas, keratoconus, or a very high prescription.

What is the rate of infection with ICL surgery?

Infection is a possibility in every operation but very rare in EVO Visian ICL surgery. At Centre for Sight we are pleased to state we have not had a proven infection following Implantable Contact Lens surgery.

High intraocular pressure

This can occur from a ‘steroid response”. The pressure in some individuals can go up following surgery from the steroid eye drops that are provided. This is rare and patients are advised to call if they experience a headache or eye ache and/or visual disturbance.

High pressures can occur from pigment dispersion where early after the procedure the iris rubbing against the Implantable Contact Lens can release pigment. In theory this can cause raised eye pressure from a blockage of the draining system. Although pigment dispersion has been seen transiently in our patients, this has not to date led to high pressures requiring treatment.