The Journey of a “Life-Changing Decision” – Quynh Trang’s Story After Phakic ICL Surgery
For many people with high myopia, being able to see clearly without glasses seems like an impossible dream. But for Ms. Quynh Trang, that dream became a reality after she chose Phakic ICL surgery – an advanced technology trusted by thousands of patients at Hai Yen Eye Care.
Born with high myopia – years behind thick lenses
Trang was born with severe nearsightedness: -9.0D in one eye and -9.5D in the other. For years, her thick glasses became inseparable from her life—whether at work, at home, or traveling. “I couldn’t go a minute without them. If I forgot my glasses, everything around me was just a blur—it was so inconvenient,” she recalled.
She had considered surgery early on, but because of her very high prescription and thin corneas, many clinics refused or advised against LASIK. “At that time in Ho Chi Minh City, there weren’t many clinics offering Phakic ICL. I also heard mixed opinions about it, so I was quite anxious,” she said.
Trust built from a heartfelt recommendation
While still unsure, Trang was referred by a relative who had undergone a successful ICL procedure at Hai Yen Eye Care. “My cousin had clear vision afterward, with no dryness or complications, so I felt more confident. I decided to go for a consultation,” she shared.
After detailed eye measurements, examinations, and personalized counseling from the medical team, Trang learned that Phakic ICL was the most suitable option for her case—it does not remove corneal tissue, preserves the natural structure of the eye, and can be removed later if necessary.
A memorable experience in the operating room

Phakic ICL surgery at Hai Yen Eye Care meets international standards with precision and care
On the day of surgery, Trang still felt a little nervous, but her worries quickly disappeared thanks to the professionalism and care of the medical staff. “What impressed me most was how attentive they were to every little detail,” she said. “When I felt cold, the nurses kindly brought me a warm blanket and comforted me. That made me feel truly cared for.”
The procedure was performed by Dr. Tran Dinh Minh Huy—a leading expert in Phakic ICL surgery. In just about 20 minutes, a Collamer® biocompatible lens was implanted precisely into position, allowing light to focus perfectly on the retina. “It didn’t hurt at all; I only felt slight pressure for a moment, then everything was done,” she recalled.
Clear vision after 3 days – an indescribable joy
Three days after surgery, Trang returned for her follow-up and was overwhelmed with emotion. “I could see everything so clearly without glasses. It felt surreal—like living a new life,” she said with a smile.
She also experienced no dryness or glare as she had feared. “I followed all the doctor’s instructions—eye drops and rest—and my eyes healed very quickly. After one year, my vision is still perfectly stable, 10/10, with no complications.”
Why she calls it “the most brilliant decision of my life”

Dr. Tran Dinh Minh Huy – leading Phakic ICL specialist at Hai Yen Eye Care
Trang shared: “At first, I was scared. But once I found a skilled doctor and a trustworthy clinic, I felt completely at ease. Now I can drive, read, and enjoy the world without glasses—something I never thought possible.”
She describes this as “the most brilliant decision of her life,” not only because of her excellent visual results but also because of the confidence, comfort, and freedom that come with healthy eyes.
Phakic ICL – a safe choice for high myopia and thin corneas
Phakic ICL is an advanced vision correction technology developed by STAAR Surgical (USA). The lens is made from Collamer®—a highly biocompatible material that works harmoniously with the human eye, does not cause dry eye, and preserves the corneal structure.
| Criteria | Phakic ICL | LASIK / SMILE |
|---|---|---|
| Corneal cutting | No | Yes |
| Suitable for thin corneas | Yes | No |
| Causes dry eye | No | Possible |
| Night vision | Clear, minimal glare | Depends on recovery |
| Removable if needed | Yes | No |
Hai Yen Eye Care – where clear vision begins

Once highly myopic at nearly -10.0D in both eyes, Ms. Quynh Trang chose Phakic ICL surgery at Hai Yen Eye Care
With over 20 years of experience in ophthalmology, Hai Yen Eye Care is among the pioneering centers offering Phakic ICL surgery in Vietnam, trusted by thousands of patients with high myopia and thin corneas. From consultation and diagnostics to post-surgery care, every step is guided by dedication and expertise.
“If anyone is still hesitating like I once did, my advice is: take time to research and choose a reputable place. Once you see the world clearly with your own eyes, you’ll understand why I call it the most brilliant decision of my life,” Trang said with a radiant smile.






