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ICL Lens Implantation
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ICL Lens Implantation at Cathedral Eye Clinic
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery is a modern vision correction treatment designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we offer EVO Visian ICL lens implantation, an advanced solution for patients seeking long-term vision correction — particularly those who may not be suitable for laser eye surgery.
ICL surgery works by placing a thin, flexible lens inside the eye to improve how light focuses on the retina. Unlike procedures such as LASIK, the cornea is not reshaped or removed during treatment. Instead, the implant works with your eye’s natural structure to deliver clear, high-definition vision.
ICL treatment can correct several refractive errors, including:
- Short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
Many patients choose ICL because it offers excellent visual clarity, quick recovery and a reversible treatment option.
Overview of ICL Lens Implantation
ICL lens implantation is a type of refractive eye surgery that involves placing a specially designed lens between the iris and the eye’s natural lens to improve focus.
The lens used in the procedure is made from Collamer, a biocompatible material that combines collagen and polymer to work naturally with the eye’s tissues. This material allows nutrients and oxygen to circulate normally within the eye.
Because the natural lens remains in place and the cornea is untouched, ICL surgery is often considered a tissue-preserving alternative to laser eye surgery.
Key characteristics of ICL surgery include:
- A minimally invasive procedure
- No permanent reshaping of the cornea
- A removable and replaceable lens if required
- Excellent optical clarity
The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes and is performed as a day-case treatment.
Am I Suitable for ICL Surgery?
ICL surgery can be an excellent option for patients who want long-term vision correction but may not be suitable candidates for laser eye surgery.
You may be suitable for ICL treatment if you:
- Are over the age of 21
- Have stable vision for at least 12 months
- Have moderate to severe short-sightedness
- Have thin corneas that may not be suitable for laser surgery
- Want a reversible alternative to LASIK or PRK
ICL lenses are particularly effective for patients with higher prescriptions, as they can correct a wide range of refractive errors.
During your consultation at Cathedral Eye Clinic, advanced diagnostic technology will be used to assess your eye health and determine the most suitable vision correction treatment.
Benefits
ICL surgery offers several advantages for patients seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses.
3 steps of ICL surgery
Step 1
Your Consultant will create a small opening at the edge of your cornea to insert the ICL.
Step 2
The ICL is folded and inserted through this small opening.
Step 3
Once the lens is inserted, your Consultant will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper positioning in the eye. The lens is not visible to you or others.
* ICL lenses intended to treat farsightedness are not EVO and require two additional tiny openings in the colored portion of your eyes to ensure there is proper fluid flow after the ICL is implanted.
Your Journey Starts Here
Your ICL Treatment Journey
Your journey begins with a complimentary suitability assessment at our clinic. This one-hour appointment is carried out by our experienced optometry team and is designed to determine which vision correction treatment you are best suited to.
There is no charge and no obligation — it's simply the first step in understanding your options.
If ICL is recommended, you'll meet with one of our consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons. During this appointment, your procedure will be explained in detail and expected outcomes discussed.
Any questions you may have will be fully answered, allowing you to make an informed decision with confidence.
If you decide to proceed, our booking coordinator will arrange your surgery date. They will guide you through everything you need to know ahead of treatment, including pre-operative instructions and what to expect on the day.
Available finance options will also be discussed, ensuring you feel fully prepared.
On the day of your procedure, our clinical team will look after you every step of the way. The treatment itself typically takes under 10 minutes per eye and the actual laser time is usually under 45 seconds.
You can expect to be in the clinic for a couple of hours in total to allow time for pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment checks before you head home.
Your care continues well beyond surgery. Our comprehensive aftercare package is designed to support safe healing and successful outcomes, and includes up to one year of post-treatment care for selected ICL procedures.
Follow-up appointments and ongoing clinical support are included — our team remains with you every step of the way.
Your journey begins with a complimentary suitability assessment at our clinic. This one-hour appointment is carried out by our experienced optometry team, designed to determine which vision correction treatment you are best suited to.
There is no charge and no obligation — it's simply the first step in understanding your options.
If ICL is recommended, you'll meet with one of our consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons. During this appointment, your procedure will be explained in detail and expected outcomes discussed.
Any questions you may have will be fully answered, allowing you to make an informed decision with confidence.
If you decide to proceed, our booking coordinator will arrange your surgery date. They will guide you through everything you need to know ahead of treatment, including pre-operative instructions and what to expect on the day.
Available finance options will also be discussed, ensuring you feel fully prepared.
On the day of your procedure, our clinical team will look after you every step of the way. The treatment itself typically takes under 10 minutes per eye and the actual laser time is usually under 45 seconds.
You can expect to be in the clinic for a couple of hours in total to allow time for pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment checks before you head home.
Your care continues well beyond surgery. Our comprehensive aftercare package is designed to support safe healing and successful outcomes, and includes up to one year of post-treatment care for selected ICL procedures.
Follow-up appointments and ongoing clinical support are included — our team remains with you every step of the way.
At a Glance
Patient Experience
Many patients describe ICL surgery as life-changing, offering a new level of visual freedom.
Benefits patients often report include:
- Clear vision without glasses
- Greater convenience compared to contact lenses
- Improved confidence in daily activities
- Freedom for sports and active lifestyles
Because the lens sits inside the eye, patients cannot feel or see the implant once it is in place.
Cost & Payment Options
The cost of ICL surgery depends on several factors, including your prescription and the type of lens required.
Flexible payment options may be available to help make treatment more accessible.
FROM
£3500
Per eye
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we provide transparent pricing and personalised guidance so you can make an informed decision about your vision correction treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
An ICL is a soft, flexible lens implanted inside the eye to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness and astigmatism.
ICL surgery is widely performed worldwide and has been shown to be a safe and effective option for vision correction when carried out by experienced surgeons.
The surgery usually takes around 20–30 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure.
Many patients notice improved vision within 24 hours, with further stabilisation over the following days.
No. Once implanted, the lens cannot be felt or seen.
ICL surgery may be better for patients with high prescriptions or thin corneas, but the best option depends on individual eye health.
Book a Consultation
If cataracts are affecting your vision or quality of life, our expert team is here to help.
Book a consultation at Cathedral Eye Clinic to explore your options and take the next step towards clearer vision.
