Phakic Intraocular Lens (IOL) surgery is a highly successful and popular treatment for very high degrees of myopia, astigmatism or hyperopia. The procedure involves the implantation of a collagen copolymer (“collamer”) lens behind the iris and in front of your eye’s natural lens.
Dr Kumar performs Phakic IOL Surgery, also called ICL Surgery, in Sydney in our beautiful and modern Vision Clinic Sydney. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you.
The ICL is a permanent intraocular collamer lens that provides sharper, clearer vision for those with myopia (nearsightedness) without impacting the cornea of your eye. Patients often have a superior visual quality outcome from this type of lens implantation compared with cornea laser surgery. It is indicated where cornea laser (LASIK, SMILE or ASLA) are not possible, or if the patient prefers this technique. Patients may also sometimes choose this intraocular lens procedure over laser surgery, glasses or contact lenses.
The highly biocompatible Collamer® material of the implantable lens protects your eyes from ultraviolet rays whilst improving your vision. No special care is needed, this lens stays in place on its own, and there is a small risk of rejection.
Implantable collamer lenses are ideal for:
Dr Kumar will conduct a thorough eye exam and evaluation, taking note of your vision and medical history before recommending the best treatment for you to achieve clear vision.
Dr Kumar will use a topical anaesthetic to numb your eye before creating a small opening in the cornea of your eye. The intraocular lens is then placed into position over your natural lens.
Our friendly staff will check you into the hospital, make sure all your details are correct and ensure that you are ready for surgery.
You will be at the hospital for approximately 4 to 5 hours, and we ask that you arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards, as your vision may be blurry.
After surgery, an eye patch or shield may be used for extra protection. In addition, you will be sent home with eye drops to be administered regularly during your recovery, preventing infection and inflammation.
This procedure is not typically associated with complications, but as with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications.
Patients generally only need a day or two to recover from this minor procedure and will notice a marked improvement in their vision immediately. After your procedure, we recommend the following:
Dr Kumar will ask you to return the day after your ICL surgery to check your progress and evaluate the procedure’s results. He will follow up over the next month as your recovery progresses. The majority of patients will notice the results almost immediately, with your visual acuity improving over the first 24 hours and stable vision results within one month.
On occasion, there is a need to remove the lens or to update the implantable collamer lens if your vision changes significantly after implantation.
The ICL procedure has an excellent safety and efficacy profile. However, complications can rarely occur.
Dr Kumar will discuss surgical risks with you during your consultation.
Vision Clinic Sydney is a beautiful modern eye surgery and treatment centre with state-of-the-art equipment and friendly staff. Our expert cataract and refractive clinic is the go-to clinic for ICL eye surgery in Sydney.
Dr Nikhil Kumar graduated in Medicine from the University of Newcastle in 1998. He soon found his passion for eyes and completed speciality training in ophthalmology at the Sydney Eye Hospital in 2008. Shortly after, in 2009, he attended the University of Toronto for fellowship training in cornea and laser eye surgery.
His skill and knowledge, combined with a drive to help people achieve a clear vision, have led to a successful career at Vision Clinic Sydney. He has been performing ICL implantation since 2009.
We are located in the central business district of Sydney in New South Wales. Our physical address is Level 6, Suite 605, 229 Macquarie St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
The cost of a Phakic implantable collamer lens in Sydney will depend on if you require the iridotomy pre-procedure as well as a number of other factors, such as the kind of prescription required. Dr Kumar and his team will be able to provide a quote for you based on your treatment needs and a thorough assessment and eye examination.
A local anaesthetic is applied to your eye so that you won’t experience pain or discomfort during the procedure. Post-procedure, you may experience some mild irritation, but you will be provided with eye drops to alleviate some if not all of the irritation.
The implantable collamer lens is designed as a long-term solution. However, the lenses can be removed if needed. For example, if you develop any other eye issues or require further eye surgery.
If your nearsightedness has been stable for at least a year you are considered suitable for ICL surgery. Dr Kumar will conduct an extensive examination and diagnostic tests to determine if you qualify.
For your safety and best results, you should not have undergone cataract surgery or other ophthalmic surgery before or have a history of eye diseases like iritis, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.
In very rare and severe cases, ICL can cause certain complications that raise the pressure in your eye and affect your vision. You should talk to your eye specialist if you notice any visual changes or are concerned.
Yes, you can simultaneously have laser eye surgery in both eyes unless Dr Kumar recommends otherwise. Most patients opt to have both done at the same time.
For your first appointment, you will need a referral letter from your General Practitioner or Optometrist. You can still be seen at the practice without a referral but will not be able to claim a Medicare rebate for the consultation or any tests/procedures you may have performed. You can download the referral PDF form or submit it online.
Please call us if you need any more information on how to book a consultation at +61 2 9222 9188.
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