Written by Gangnam Brand Eye Clinic
2025.02.20
Lens implant surgery is a method of vision correction that involves placing a lens inside the eye to correct refractive errors. Simply put, it’s like inserting a soft contact lens into the eye permanently rather than wearing it on the surface. Depending on the location of the lens, the procedure can be divided into anterior lens implant and posterior lens implant. The anterior refers to the space between the cornea and iris, while the posterior refers to the space between the iris and crystalline lens. In the early stages, anterior lens implant was more commonly performed, but due to a higher risk of damage to the corneal endothelial cells and a greater chance of complications, posterior lens implant is now more frequently used. So, how does ICL(Lens implant) surgery differ from LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE LASIK?
ICL(Lens implant) surgery and LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE LASIK essentially differ in the area of the eye that is treated. LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE LASIK involve reshaping the cornea with a laser to correct refractive errors by altering its shape. ICL(Lens implant) surgery does not alter the surface of the cornea but involves placing a lens inside the eye. Therefore, it can be performed in cases where the cornea is too thin for surgery or when myopia or astigmatism is too severe to be corrected through corneal reshaping. Additionally, individuals with conditions like Avelino Corneal Dystrophy, which result in a thin or irregular cornea, and who are not suitable candidates for corneal-based procedures, can also opt for lens implantation surgery. However, because this procedure involves inserting an artificial lens into the eye, the internal space of the eye must be sufficient for the surgery to be performed. Hence, a preoperative test to check if there is enough anterior chamber space is required.
Pros: 1. The first advantage of lens implantation surgery is the wide range of correction. It is suitable for people with high myopia, astigmatism, or hyperopia who are not candidates for LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK. 2. The second advantage is that it is reversible. Unlike surgeries that involve cutting the cornea, which cannot be undone, lens implantation allows for the lens to be removed, and the eye can return to its pre-surgery state. Cons: 1. However, unlike LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK, lens implantation involves inserting an artificial lens inside the eye, which can lead to complications inside the eye. This can cause conditions like uveitis, iritis, and interfere with the flow of aqueous humor, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. 2. Additionally, there is an increased risk of cataracts and glaucoma, and while the likelihood is lower with posterior lens implantation compared to anterior lens implantation, there is still a risk of corneal endothelial cell damage.
After lens implantation surgery, it is important to regularly monitor for any complications within the eye. Immediately after the surgery, you should avoid getting water in the eye to prevent infection, and regular use of eye drops is necessary to prevent inflammation. In the short term, it is important to observe if the intraocular pressure stabilizes, and in the long term, it is recommended to check for any damage to the lens, glaucoma, cataracts, or corneal endothelial cells at least once a year. If any issues are detected, the lens should be removed. Removing the lens can help prevent further damage, so regular check-ups are crucial.
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