Description: Information about ICL implants (Implantable Collamer Lens) in Geneva: indications, advantages, surgical procedure, recovery and risks. A safe alternative to laser vision correction (LASIK, PRK) for high myopia, hyperopia or corneas unsuitable for laser surgery.

ICL: an alternative to laser eye surgery

An ICL is a soft, biocompatible implant placed inside the eye, just in front of the natural lens. Unlike LASIK or PRK, it does not reshape or remove any corneal tissue.

ICLs are designed for patients who:

• have high myopia or hyperopia beyond laser limits,
• have thin or irregular corneas that are not suitable for LASIK/PRK,
• want a reversible option with excellent visual quality,
• have stable keratoconus or corneal conditions (selected cases).

ICLs often provide exceptionally sharp and high-contrast vision.

Which visual defects can ICL correct?

ICLs can correct:

• Myopia (moderate to very high),
• Hyperopia (selected cases),
• Astigmatism (toric ICL models).

They are especially useful when laser surgery is not possible.

Preoperative assessment for ICL

A dedicated examination is necessary to ensure safety:

• Precise refraction (distance and near vision),
• Corneal topography to analyse shape and regularity,
• Pachymetry (corneal thickness),
• Anterior chamber depth measurement (critical safety criterion),
• Lens and retina examination,
• Biometric sizing to choose the correct implant size.

Only eyes with sufficient anterior chamber depth can receive an ICL safely.

How is the ICL procedure performed?

ICL implantation is a quick and comfortable procedure:

• Outpatient surgery (you return home the same day),
• Local anaesthesia with numbing drops,
• Micro-incision of a few millimetres,
• Placement of the implant behind the iris and in front of the natural lens.

The surgery is painless, and vision often improves within hours or days.

The implant is invisible from the outside and not felt by the patient.

Advantages of ICL implants

• No corneal tissue removed (ideal for thin or fragile corneas),
• Exceptional optical quality and contrast sensitivity,
• Reversible: the implant can be removed or replaced,
• Allows correction of very high myopia,
• Fast visual recovery.

Many patients report extremely clear and sharp vision after ICL implantation.

Postoperative course

• Slightly blurred vision during the first hours,
• Light sensitivity,
• Eye drops for 2–4 weeks,
• Follow-up visits after 1 day, 1 week, 1 month.

Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days.

Risks and limitations

• temporary increase in eye pressure,
• rare contact with the natural lens (risk of early cataract),
• implant malposition,
• infection (very rare).

These risks are uncommon and are explained in detail during the evaluation.

ICL consultation in Geneva

During an ICL-focused consultation, your ophthalmologist:

• Checks your eligibility (eye depth, corneal health, refractive error),
• Explains benefits and limitations,
• Discusses your visual expectations (work, night driving, sports, etc.).

The goal is to offer a safe, high-quality and personalised vision correction.

Considering ICL implants?

If you have high myopia, thin corneas or want a non-laser alternative, ICL implants may be an excellent option.

Do not hesitate to book a complete ICL evaluation in our ophthalmology practice in Geneva.

Consult our ophthalmology practice for a personalised opinion on ICL implants. Make an appointment at +41 (0) 22 346 26 78 or via our online booking system.