There are cases in which laser corneal surgery to correct refractive errors is not possible, and it is preferable to implant intraocular lenses, called phakic intraocular lenses (PIOLs), which preserve the eye’s natural crystalline lens.
Posterior chamber phakic lenses, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), are inserted inside the eye, in front of the crystalline lens and behind the iris, to safely and effectively correct high myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
With these lenses, made from a biocompatible material, the eye does not undergo any structural modification.
The main advantage of these lenses is that they make it possible to correct myopia, hyperopia, and/or astigmatism that cannot be treated with corneal laser surgery, and in some cases, they even improve the patient’s visual capacity.
If necessary, the lens can be removed so the eye regains its original condition, making this a reversible procedure, unlike laser surgery.
The intervention is performed on an outpatient basis. Since it is intraocular surgery, and to minimize the risk of infection, one eye is operated on first, followed by the other a week later. Topical or local anesthesia is used, and visual recovery is rapid (24–48 hours) and very stable.