Over -12 Diopters and Still Able to Remove Glasses with Phakic ICL

Introduction

For people with high myopia, especially above -10 to -12 diopters, depending on thick glasses not only causes daily inconvenience but also affects psychology and appearance. Many patients have shared that they lost confidence simply because of the thick lenses covering their eyes. Meanwhile, many popular laser methods such as LASIK or SMILE are not suitable due to thin corneas or extremely high myopia.

The breakthrough solution for these cases is Phakic ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) – a modern, safe refractive surgery method widely applied in leading ophthalmology centers worldwide. At the Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Phakic ICL has helped thousands of high-myopia patients “take off their glasses,” regaining clear vision and confidence in life.

Real-life patient experience

Patient with over -12D myopia corrected with Phakic ICL

Ms. Nguyễn Thị Thùy Dương had more than -12 diopters of myopia with thin corneas, making her unsuitable for common laser methods such as LASIK or SMILE. Her thick glasses not only caused discomfort in daily activities but also undermined her confidence in communication and work.

“Before, thick glasses made me insecure and very uncomfortable, especially when driving in the rain. Thanks to Phakic ICL, my appearance has improved, and my daily activities feel much more convenient. I am very happy and satisfied that I chose Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital as the place to help me ‘take off my glasses.’” – shared by patient Thùy Dương.

In just under 5 minutes of painless surgery, she was able to see clearly within 2 hours, and her vision reached 20/20 after only 1 day of follow-up. This is strong evidence of the outstanding effectiveness of Phakic ICL for high myopia patients.

What is Phakic ICL?

Phakic ICL is an ultra-thin biological lens made of Collamer® – a proprietary material with excellent biocompatibility. The lens is implanted into the eye, specifically behind the iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens.

Unlike laser procedures such as LASIK or SMILE, Phakic ICL does not damage the cornea or alter the eye’s natural structure. This ensures safety for patients with thin corneas while maintaining long-term stability.

Who is a candidate for Phakic ICL?

Phakic ICL surgery at Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital

• Myopia from -3D to -20D, including over -12D.
• Can also correct astigmatism from 1.0D to 4.0D.
• Ages 21–45, with stable vision for at least 1 year.
• Patients with thin corneas, not eligible for laser surgery.
• No severe eye diseases such as glaucoma, endophthalmitis, or advanced cataracts.

Outstanding advantages of Phakic ICL

• Rapid vision improvement: After surgery, patients can see almost immediately. Many report achieving 20/20 vision within 24 hours, marking a dramatic improvement in daily life.
• No corneal damage: Phakic ICL does not cut or thin the cornea like laser methods. Therefore, it is safe for people with thin corneas or frequent dry eye.
• Removable if necessary: The ICL acts as an “add-on” technology without permanently altering the eye. If needed, doctors can remove or replace it to adapt to vision changes or future technology.
• Quick recovery with minimal pain: The procedure takes only 5–10 minutes, is virtually painless, and patients can return to normal activities within 1–2 days without extended downtime.
• Comprehensive eye protection: Collamer lenses naturally filter UV rays, reducing the risk of macular degeneration, retinal damage, and other sun-related eye conditions.

Phakic ICL at Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital

Phakic ICL at Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital

As one of the leading international ophthalmology hospitals, the Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital HCMC has invested in modern equipment meeting global standards. The medical team is trained in Russia, the US, and Japan, with extensive experience in thousands of Phakic ICL cases.

When choosing Vietnam-Russia, patients benefit from:

• Comprehensive examination and personalized consultation tailored to their eye condition.
• International-standard services with sterile operating rooms.
• Careful post-operative monitoring to ensure safety and long-term results.

Why Phakic ICL is the golden choice for high myopia

• The only solution for myopia over -12D that laser cannot treat.
• Safe for thin corneas – patients who were previously “denied” laser surgery now have a solution.
• Provides stable, long-lasting vision and a higher quality of life.

According to international statistics, more than 3 million Phakic ICL procedures have been performed worldwide, with over 99% of patients satisfied with the results.

Conclusion

If you have severe myopia above -12D, thin corneas, or are not eligible for laser methods, then Phakic ICL at Vietnam-Russia International Eye Hospital is the optimal solution to “take off your glasses.” With a safe, quick procedure and outstanding visual outcomes, Phakic ICL opens up the opportunity to regain confidence and comfort in everyday life.