22 October, 2024 by Dr. Hardik Parikh

Phakic ICL : A More Advanced Option Than LASIK

Phakic ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery is the preferred choice for vision correction over LASIK, especially in patients with high myopia and complex vision issues. While LASIK has been a popular choice for decades, advancements in Phakic ICL technology offer several advantages that make it a superior option in many cases. Let’s dive into why world-class hospitals worldwide increasingly recommend Phakic ICL surgery over LASIK.

No Alteration to the Cornea

One of the major advantages of Phakic ICL surgery is that it does not involve reshaping the cornea. LASIK, on the other hand, works by permanently removing corneal tissue to adjust its shape, which can sometimes lead to vision problem in patients with thin corneas or irregular astigmatism.

Since Phakic ICL involves implanting a lens inside the eye, it leaves the cornea intact, making it a safer option for individuals with conditions that make them unsuitable for LASIK. Renowned hospitals like Moorfields Eye Hospital are increasingly adopting Phakic ICL for patients with higher prescriptions, thin corneas, or those prone to dry eyes because it eliminates the risks associated with corneal thinning.

Wider Range of Prescription Correction

Phakic ICL is particularly beneficial for patients with severe myopia (nearsightedness) or high refractive errors. LASIK has limitations in terms of how much it can correct, especially when it comes to extreme prescriptions. Phakic ICL, on the other hand, can effectively correct up to -20.0 diopters of myopia, while LASIK is typically limited .

Hospitals such as the Cleveland Clinic are now utilizing Phakic ICL more frequently for patients with higher prescriptions who would otherwise be ineligible for LASIK.

Superior Night Vision and Reduced Dry Eye Risk

One of the known side effects of LASIK is the risk of dry eyes and halos or glare during nighttime. Because LASIK involves cutting a flap in the cornea, it can affect the tear production process, leading to chronic dry eye in some patients. It also has the potential to cause nighttime visual disturbances, especially in patients with larger pupils.

Phakic ICL does not carry these same risks because it does not alter the corneal shape or the tear ducts. Patients often report better night vision with fewer incidences of glare, halos, or starbursts. Top-tier hospitals like the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute – Baltimore, USA have noted a significant reduction in post-operative issues with Phakic ICL when compared to LASIK.

Reversibility

Perhaps one of the most remarkable benefits of Phakic ICL is that it is reversible. If, for any reason, the lens needs to be removed or replaced, it can be done easily. LASIK, however, is a permanent procedure. Once the cornea is reshaped, it cannot be undone.

This ability to remove or replace the lens gives Phakic ICL a significant advantage in the long term. Hospitals around the world, including Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai prefer Phakic ICL because of its flexibility and adaptability in treating vision over a patient’s lifetime.

Quicker Recovery with Minimal Downtime

Phakic ICL is minimally invasive, and the recovery time is often quicker than LASIK. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days after Phakic ICL surgery. The procedure itself is short, typically lasting around 30 minutes, and is painless due to local anesthesia. LASIK recovery, while generally fast, may involve more discomfort and visual fluctuations in the first few weeks.

Hospitals like Wills Eye Hospital have found Phakic ICL patients often experience faster visual recovery with fewer complications.

Why Are World-Class Hospitals Preferring Phakic ICL?

As technology continues to advance, leading hospitals around the globe are choosing Phakic ICL for its safety, versatility, and superior outcomes. Here’s why it’s favored over LASIK in elite eye hospitals:

• Lower complication rates, especially in high-risk patients.
• Wider range of correction, making it accessible to more patients.
• Reversibility, offering flexibility for future vision changes.
• Safer for dry eye patients, with no flap complications.
• High patient satisfaction rates, particularly among those who were ineligible for LASIK.

As more world-famous hospitals adopt Phakic ICL as the primary option for severe myopia and complex refractive errors, patients can feel confident that they are receiving the best, most advanced care available today.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery, Global Eye Clinic in Mumbai, under the guidance of Dr. Hardik Parikh, one of the best eye doctors in Mumbai, offers cutting-edge Phakic ICL surgery tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion

While LASIK remains a popular choice for many, Phakic ICL surgery offers a more advanced, safer, and flexible solution for those with high myopia or other vision concerns. With world-renowned hospitals choosing Phakic ICL over LASIK for its superior outcomes, it’s no surprise that it’s rapidly becoming the preferred choice for patients worldwide.

For a consultation or to learn more about how Phakic ICL can help you, contact Global Eye Clinic today +919500895970

Category : Laser Eye Surgeries , Lasik