What You Need to Know Before Deciding on Phakic ICL Surgery

Phakic ICL – Soft, clear Collamer lens placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens, providing sharp, natural vision without corneal damage
Phakic ICL (Implantable Collamer® Lens) is a lens placed behind the iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens to correct myopia and astigmatism without damaging the cornea. This article answers 8 key questions to help you make an informed decision.
What Age is Suitable for Phakic ICL Surgery?
Generally, the ideal age is 21–45 when refractive stability is achieved. Before surgery, the ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive evaluation: current myopia/astigmatism level, anterior chamber depth (≥ 3.0 mm), endothelial cell density, and the condition of the cornea, lens, retina, as well as overall health.
- Stable refraction for at least 12 months.
- No progressive eye diseases requiring prior treatment (e.g., uveitis, uncontrolled glaucoma).
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding at the time of surgery.
Who is Not Eligible for Phakic ICL Surgery?
| Not Eligible | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Shallow anterior chamber / ACD < 3.0 mm | Insufficient space for safe lens placement, increasing complication risk. |
| Low endothelial cell density for age | Risk of postoperative corneal edema; may require delay or alternative treatment. |
| Progressive ocular diseases | Glaucoma, endophthalmitis, significant cataract, retinal degeneration—must be treated first. |
| Unstable refraction | Rapid prescription changes reduce long-term results. |
| Pregnant/breastfeeding | Hormonal changes can temporarily alter refraction; advisable to wait. |
If any of the above factors are present, your doctor will recommend an optimal treatment plan or delay surgery until it is safe.
Can Myopia Return After Phakic ICL Surgery?
Phakic ICL offers long-lasting results due to its stable position inside the eye. However, vision may still change with age and accommodative needs. In cases of significant refractive change, the lens can be removed or replaced for better correction.
- Maintain regular eye check-ups to monitor refraction.
- Practice proper eye care and rest during high-intensity work.
Are There Risks of Glaucoma or Cataracts After Surgery?

Phakic ICL preserves the natural crystalline lens, correcting vision without increasing early cataract risk.
These risks are documented in clinical practice but are generally low when screening is thorough and postoperative care is followed.
- Glaucoma: related to aqueous humor flow and anterior chamber anatomy. Regular IOP monitoring helps detect early changes for timely management.
- Cataract: Phakic ICL does not increase cataract risk; instead, the risk increases naturally with age. If vision is affected, standard cataract surgery can be performed.
- Endothelial cell loss: regular measurements ensure long-term corneal safety.
Keeping follow-up appointments is key to maintaining good vision and reducing late complications.
Are There Complications After Phakic ICL Surgery?
The overall complication rate is low when the correct indications and surgical protocols are followed. Possible issues (usually self-limiting or manageable) include:
- Glare or halos in low-light environments.
- Mild initial discomfort, superficial inflammation, or lens position adjustment.
- Minor refractive changes due to adaptation, usually stabilizing after recovery.
Should Both Eyes Be Operated on the Same Day?
Many patients can undergo surgery in both eyes during the same session if safety criteria are met. In certain cases, surgery may be staged to monitor the first eye’s response before operating on the other.
Will the Lens Need to Be Replaced Over Time?
Phakic ICL lenses are designed for long-term use. However, in cases of significant refractive change, new eye conditions requiring intervention, or a desire to upgrade technology, the lens can be removed or replaced.
Will I Feel Discomfort, Itching, or a Foreign Body Sensation After Surgery?

Bright, natural eyes – the result of Phakic ICL technology, delivering sharp vision while preserving corneal structure.
The EVO+ Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is made from Collamer™ — a hydrophilic HEMA–collagen copolymer with high biocompatibility. The lens is soft, clear, and its thickness varies according to power, placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens in the posterior chamber.
Most patients do not feel the lens once the eye stabilizes; some may have mild sensations for a few days during the adaptation period, which subside after recovery.
Key Benefits of Choosing Phakic ICL
- No corneal damage, suitable for thin corneas or chronic dry eye.
- High-quality vision day and night, sharp and natural images.
- Fast recovery, early return to normal activities with minimal disruption.
- Biocompatible Collamer® material with UV protection.
- Removable if future changes require it.
Treatment and Care at TD Eye
At TD Eye, the process is personalized to each eye’s biological profile:
- Comprehensive preoperative evaluation: corneal topography, ACD measurement, endothelial count, retinal assessment.
- Precise surgical indication: Phakic ICL for suitable myopia/astigmatism; alternative options if necessary.
- Standardized postoperative care with follow-ups at 24–48h, 1–2 weeks, and 1–3 months.






