Step-by-step Phakic ICL Surgery Procedure: Fast, Safe, and Painless

Step-by-step Phakic ICL Surgery Procedure: Fast, Safe, and Painless

Illustration of the Phakic ICL lens placed between the iris and natural lens – correcting refractive errors without damaging the cornea.

Phakic ICL is a modern treatment for myopia and astigmatism that does not involve altering the cornea. With a quick 20–30 minute procedure and rapid recovery, Phakic ICL is becoming the ideal choice for patients with high myopia, thin corneas, or those unsuitable for LASIK. This article will walk you through each step of the Phakic ICL surgery procedure—from preparation to post-op care—so you can confidently consider this option.

Pre-surgery: Detailed Examination & Preparation

Before surgery, you’ll undergo a series of evaluations to assess eye health and confirm your eligibility for Phakic ICL.

• Precise refraction measurement for each eye (myopia, astigmatism)
• Corneal thickness and shape measurement (corneal topography)
• Anterior chamber depth measurement – minimum 3.0 mm
• Endothelial cell count
• Discontinue contact lenses for 2 to 4 weeks

Ideal candidates are typically 21–45 years old, have myopia from –3.0D to –20.0D, astigmatism from 1.0D to 4.0D, and stable vision for at least one year.

Pre-operative Instructions:

• Stop wearing contact lenses at least 2 weeks (soft) or 4 weeks (hard) before evaluation/surgery.
• Avoid eye makeup, perfumes, or lotions on the surgery day.
• Eat a light meal and get sufficient sleep before surgery.
• Inform your doctor if you’re taking blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, or have medical history.

Surgery Day: Quick, Painless, Precise

The Phakic ICL surgery procedure takes around 20–30 minutes and is completely painless thanks to local anesthetic drops. You will remain awake during the entire process.

Patients receive local anesthesia and undergo the Phakic ICL surgery procedure while lying comfortably, awake, and without pain.

The 3 main steps of Phakic ICL surgery procedure:

1. Apply anesthetic and pupil-dilating eye drops
2. Create a tiny 3mm incision at the edge of the cornea
3. Insert the folded Phakic ICL lens into the anterior chamber, between the iris and natural lens

The lens unfolds inside the eye and is positioned precisely. Thanks to its central hole design (KS-AquaPort), Phakic ICL does not require an additional iridotomy as older ICL models did.

Surgery Day Reminders:

• Do not drive to surgery – arrange for someone to accompany you.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses, jewelry, or metal accessories around the face/head.
• Follow the anesthesia and medication instructions given by your doctor.

Mental Preparation:

• The surgery procedure is painless – you may feel slight pressure or minor discomfort.
• No need to worry about blinking – your eye will be held open with a speculum.
• If anxious, discuss the option of mild sedation beforehand.

Contraindications to Note:

• Do not undergo surgery procedure if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Not suitable if you have a history of glaucoma, cataracts, endophthalmitis, or unstable vision.
• Anterior chamber depth under 3.0mm or very low endothelial cell count are exclusion factors.

Post-surgery: Recovery and Aftercare

After Phakic ICL surgery procedure, patients are guided on medication use, eye protection, and follow-up schedule to optimize outcomes.

After surgery, you will be monitored for 1–2 hours at the clinic before being discharged. Most patients notice improved vision as early as the first day.

Post-op Care Instructions:

• Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for 7–14 days.
• Avoid rubbing eyes, water exposure, or eye makeup for at least 7 days.
• Don’t wash your face directly under running water for the first week. Tilt your head back when shampooing.
• Limit screen time and reading for 2 days.
• Avoid vigorous sports, swimming, saunas, and dusty environments for at least 1 month.
• Rest adequately and avoid bright light in the first few days.

Follow-up Schedule:

24 hours → 7 days → 1 month → 3 months → 6 months → 12 months (post-op)

Contact Your Doctor Immediately If:

• Severe, persistent pain
• Redness and excessive tearing
• Sudden decrease in vision
• Halos, glare, or foreign body sensation in the eye

Comparison: Phakic ICL vs Other Methods

Conclusion: Phakic ICL surgery offers a modern, fast, and minimally invasive solution for correcting high myopia and astigmatism—restoring clear vision from day one and ensuring long-term results with proper care.