Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)
Not Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery? Discover Your Alternative Vision Correction Option
If you’ve been told you’re not suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, you’re not out of options. Here at The Laser Eye Centre, we can help our patients achieve clearer vision using Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs) as a powerful alternative.
Why Might Someone Be Unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser Eye Surgery may not be right for everyone. Common reasons include:
- Very high prescriptions
- Thin or irregularly shaped corneas
- Eye health conditions like keratoconus or chronic dry eye
If this sounds familiar, you might benefit from ICL surgery, a premium and long-lasting solution that doesn’t involve reshaping your cornea.
What Is an Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)?
ICLs, also known as Implantable Collamer Lenses, are thin, flexible lenses inserted between your natural lens and iris. Unlike regular contact lenses that sit on the eye’s surface, these lenses remain in place permanently — or can be removed later if needed.
They are especially beneficial for treating:
- High myopia (nearsightedness)
- Astigmatism
- Patients with thin corneas or dry eyes
Benefits of ICL Surgery
- Reversible – Lenses can be removed or exchanged
- Treats a wider range of prescriptions – Up to -18 diopters
- Preserves corneal structure – No tissue removal
- UV protection – Built-in shield for your internal eye structures
- Fast recovery – Many patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours
Risks and Side Effects of ICLs
While ICL surgery is very safe, it is a more invasive procedure than LASIK and carries some minor risks:
- Temporary increase in eye pressure
- Inflammation or mild discomfort
- Halos or glare at night (usually temporary)
Most patients find any side effects resolve within days and can resume work within a week.
What Happens After ICL Surgery?
- Return to most normal activities within 24–48 hours
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and heavy exercise for 1 week
- Attend regular follow-ups in the first year, then annual check-ups thereafter
- Residual prescriptions (if any) can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or laser surgery (in suitable cases)
ICL vs LASIK – What’s the Difference?
Who Is a Good Candidate for ICL?
You may be a strong candidate if you:
- Are aged 21 to 50
- Have a stable prescription for at least 12 months
- Are not suitable for LASIK
- Have thin corneas, keratoconus, or chronic dry eye
- Want a reversible, long-term solution to glasses or contact lenses
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if I’m not eligible for Laser Eye Surgery?
A: ICL could be the ideal solution, especially if you have a high prescription, thin corneas, or dry eyes.
Q: Is ICL surgery painful?
A: No. The procedure uses numbing drops. Most patients experience only mild discomfort.
Q: How long do ICLs last?
A: ICLs are designed to stay in the eye indefinitely but can be removed or replaced if needed.
Q: Can I still wear glasses or contacts after ICL?
A: Yes. If you have any residual prescription, glasses or soft contact lenses can be worn. Laser enhancement is also an option.
Q: Is ICL better than LASIK?
A: For certain patients—yes. Especially those who aren’t LASIK candidates due to corneal or refractive issues.
Where We’re Located
Whether you live in the Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, or Central & Lower North Island, expert laser eye surgery advice is never far away:
Hamilton
New Plymouth
Tauranga
Pukekohe
Taupo
Ready to Explore Your Options??
If you’ve been told you’re not suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, don’t give up on your dream of clear vision. ICL surgery could be the safe, effective, and lasting solution you’ve been searching for.
Book your free vision assessment today to find out if ICL Surgery is right for you.
Phone: 0800 733 2020 or book online here
What Goes Into the Cost of Laser Eye Surgery?
For over 35 years, we’ve helped Kiwis enjoy clearer vision through personalised, expert care.
Our clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art ZEISS laser technology which is used worldwide for its precision, safety, and proven results. But behind the scenes is where the real investment lies.
It’s not just about the laser, for when you choose us, you’re choosing more than technology. You’re choosing comprehensive care, including:
- A team of highly experienced surgeons and clinicians with over 100 years of combined expertise.
- Purpose built; multimillion dollar facilities designed for world-class patient care.
- Over $1 million plus in cutting-edge surgical and diagnostic equipment, keeping us at the forefront of innovation.
- A fully accredited, sterile surgical theatre meeting the highest medical standards.
- Single use, medical grade treatment packs for every patient.
- Ongoing compliance with New Zealand’s strict health and safety regulations.
- Purpose-designed infrastructure to support patient comfort, safety, and outstanding outcomes.
We’re proud to offer a service built on decades of experience, advanced technology, and an unwavering commitment to your safety. For many of our patients, the freedom from glasses or contacts is truly life-changing and priceless.
Finance Options
Q Card interest rates apply upon completion of agreed interest free period.
We also have payment options such as VISA, Mastercard, EFT (bank authorisation required over $3000).
*Normal credit and lending criteria and fees, including a $55 establishment fee and $52 annual fee apply. Prevailing interest rate(currently 25.99% p.a.) applies to any outstanding balance on the expiry of the interest free period.
Credit is provided by Latitude Financial Services Limited.
* Please Note: The directors and shareholders do not have a vested material or financial interest in any of the financial institutions listed above.
Interest-Free Payments
Improve your vision today
We offer a range of affordable finance options to suit all needs. From Gem Visa to Q Mastercard, interest-free packages and long-term financing are available for 6 to 12 months.
Gem Visa Pre-Approval
Lending criteria, fees, and T&Cs apply. See www.gemfinance.co.nz
Q Mastercard Pre-Approval
Lending criteria, fees, and T&Cs apply. See www.qmastercard.co.nz
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