Overview
Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL), often referred to as implantable contact lenses, represent a highly advanced and reversible form of vision correction. Unlike laser eye surgery, which permanently reshapes the surface of the eye, an ICL procedure involves gently inserting a micro-thin, highly biocompatible artificial lens inside the eye. This lens works in perfect harmony with the eye’s natural crystalline lens to correctly focus light onto the retina, providing exceptionally sharp, high-definition vision.
Mr Arthur Okonkwo, a dual fellowship-trained Consultant Ophthalmologist based in Leeds, offers comprehensive assessment and expert surgical implantation of ICLs. This procedure is particularly life-changing for patients with severe degrees of myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), or astigmatism who may have been told they are unsuitable candidates for traditional laser vision correction due to thin or irregularly shaped corneas or dry eye.
The lenses used by Mr Okonkwo, such as the EVO Visian ICL, are crafted from Collamer—a technologically advanced material containing purified collagen.
This material is incredibly soft, flexible, and naturally biocompatible, meaning it is not recognised as a foreign body by the immune system. Furthermore, because the eye’s natural lens is left entirely intact and unaltered, the procedure preserves the eye’s natural ability to focus on objects at varying distances, and importantly, the ICL can be safely removed or upgraded in the future if visual requirements change.
Key Benefits
- High-definition vision
- Ideal for thin corneas
- Reversible procedure
- UV protection
- No dry eye syndrome
- Expert Consultant care
Conditions Treated
- Severe Myopia (High short-sightedness)
- Severe Hyperopia (High long-sightedness)
- Astigmatism
- Patients unsuitable for laser eye surgery
- Patients with thin corneas
- Patients with chronic dry eye
What to Expect
1
Initial Consultation
The journey begins with a detailed, unhurried discussion of your visual goals, lifestyle, and medical history. Arthur works closely alongside a specialist Optometrist that helps find out what you want from your vision correction.
2
Diagnostic Assessment
Comprehensive biometry, corneal topography, and endothelial cell counts are performed.
3
Treatment Planning
Based on the diagnostic assessment, Mr Okonkwo will order your bespoke Implantable Collamer Lens.
4
The Procedure
ICL implantation is performed as a swift day case procedure, typically under local anaesthetic drops.
5
Immediate Aftercare
Following a brief and comfortable rest period in the clinic's recovery area, patients are safely discharged to return home the very same day.
6
Follow-Up Care
Thorough post-operative instructions are provided, including a clear schedule for your prescribed eye drops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone see the Implantable Collamer Lens in my eye?
No. The Implantable Collamer Lens is positioned entirely behind the iris (the coloured part of your eye) and in front of your natural crystalline lens. It is completely invisible to the naked eye, both to yourself and to anyone looking at you. Only an eye care professional using a specialised microscope (slit lamp) can detect its presence.
Is the ICL procedure painful?
The procedure is generally completely painless. Mr Okonkwo uses strong local anaesthetic eye drops to thoroughly numb the surface of the eye before the surgery begins. Patients may feel a mild sensation of pressure during the brief insertion of the lens, but actual discomfort is extremely rare. Any mild post-operative grittiness usually resolves within a day.
How long do Implantable Collamer Lenses last?
ICLs are designed to remain in the eye permanently without degrading or requiring maintenance. The advanced Collamer material is highly biocompatible and intended to last a lifetime. However, because the procedure does not permanently alter the structure of the eye, the lens can be safely surgically removed or replaced by Mr Okonkwo in the future if your prescription changes significantly or if you develop cataracts later in life.
What makes ICL different from standard contact lenses?
While standard contact lenses sit on the surface of the eye and require daily insertion, removal, and careful cleaning to prevent serious infections, an ICL is surgically implanted inside the eye. It requires no daily maintenance, does not dry out, and cannot be felt once it is in place. It functions as a permanent, maintenance-free visual solution.
Will I still be able to develop cataracts if I have an ICL?
Yes. Because the ICL procedure preserves your natural crystalline lens, it is still possible to develop age-related cataracts later in life. If a cataract does develop and begins to affect your vision, Mr Okonkwo can safely remove the ICL during standard cataract surgery and replace your cloudy natural lens with a new intraocular lens (IOL) to restore your sight.
Quick Info
Duration
Longer consultation times are provided for a thorough assessment. The surgical procedure itself is very quick, typically taking only 15-20 minutes per eye.
Recovery
Patients experience rapid visual recovery. Most individuals notice significantly improved, high-definition vision within 24 hours of surgery.
Specialist Care
All treatment is strictly Consultant-led by a dual fellowship-trained specialist, ensuring expert care at every stage.
Ready to Get Started?
Book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
Ready to Discuss Your Vision?
If you have a high prescription or have been told you are unsuitable for laser eye surgery, expert assessment and advanced ICL treatment are available. Book a consultation to explore your tailored vision correction options.