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In recent years, laser surgeries such as LASIK have revolutionized the world of vision correction.1
However, laser corrective therapy isn’t the only remedy for refractive errors. New alternatives like the Visian implantable collamer lens (ICL) also improve vision.2
When comparing LASIK and Visian ICL, the primary difference is the visual problems treated.
The FDA approved LASIK to treat myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. ICL is only approved to correct nearsightedness.
Thinking about LASIK? Start a conversation with an experienced Patient Counselor to find out if laser eye surgery is right for you. Learn More
ICL involves inserting permanent lenses into the eye for better vision, while LASIK fixes refractive errors using an excimer laser.3
Although most refractive errors can be treated with LASIK, those at risk for chronic dry eyes prefer Visian ICL.
LASIK is more cost-effective, treats more conditions, and has a faster recovery timeline than ICL. While most LASIK patients attain good vision a day after the surgery, ICL patients take at least 7 days to achieve clear vision.
Considering the invasive nature of ICL, it has a higher risk of severe eye infection than LASIK.
ICL offers a permanent solution and has fewer side effects than LASIK.
ICL is an abbreviation for implantable collamer lens (ICL). It’s a treatment approved by the FDA for myopia (Visian ICL V4 is another brand).
A newer version known as Visian Toric ICL is now available to treat astigmatism that occurs alongside myopia.8
Commonly referred to as Visian ICL, this surgical eye procedure is an excellent alternative to laser-based procedures such as LASIK.
During Visian ICL, the eye surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea. Then they insert an artificial lens through the incision using a special injector.
The implantable lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens, not to replace it but to complement it.
This procedure takes about 15 minutes for each eye.
Visian ICL is ideal for people with thin corneas who don’t qualify for LASIK surgery. It’s also a preference for those at risk of dry eyes.
You qualify for Visian ICL if you:4
Visian ICL costs about $4,000 to $5,000 or more per eye. Because refractive surgery is considered elective, insurance will not cover it.
The cost of ICL may also vary from one provider to the other.
Regardless of the cost, ICL is worth it if you’re aiming for a long-term solution for myopia.
Questions about LASIK? Call NVISION to speak with an experienced Patient Counselor who can answer all your questions and set up a free consultation. No commitment required.
Laser in-situ keratomileusis, popularly known as LASIK eye surgery, is a corrective treatment for vision problems.5
If the cornea is irregularly shaped, light might not focus well, leading to blurry vision. This is known as refractive error.6
LASIK surgery changes the shape of the cornea to correct the refractive error. The cornea is the clear part of your eye that focuses light on the retina, enabling clear vision.
The four types of refractive errors LASIK treats include:
During LASIK, the eye surgeon uses a device called a femtosecond laser to cut out a flap in the cornea and fold it backward.
They then safely remove some tissue from strategic areas in the cornea before placing the flap into position. This reshapes the cornea and improves vision.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), LASIK is a safe alternative to prescription glasses and contact lenses.
You’re a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery if you:
LASIK is not for everyone, and there are other factors that might make you ineligible for the procedure. Consult your doctor before making any decision about the surgery.
The price of LASIK is usually advertised “per eye.” There are a number of factors that might affect price, which makes it difficult to predict expenses before your qualifying test.
Factors influencing cost include:
When choosing between ICL and LASIK, your doctor will likely recommend the surgery that’s best for your condition.
If you have myopia (shortsightedness) and you qualify for both vision correction options, your doctor will likely choose LASIK over ICL.
This is because LASIK is less invasive, simple to perform, and less expensive compared to ICL.
However, LASIK is not ideal if you have thin or flat corneas. In this case, ICL would be a better option.
Both LASIK and ICL are effective in treating eye problems. Always consult a qualified optometrist before undergoing any of the procedures.
NVISION Eye Centers offer custom LASIK, affordable pricing plans, and a lifetime guarantee. Learn More
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Still not sure about LASIK? Talk with an experienced Patient Counselor at NVISION to find out if it's right for you.
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