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ICL Surgery in Melbourne: What You Need to Know

ICL eye surgery (or Implantable Collamer Lens surgery) is a modern vision correction procedure that’s there to help everyone achieve the clear eyesight they’re looking for. This is a permanent procedure, with the aim of helping individuals live without glasses or contact lenses.

At NewVision Clinics in Melbourne, our goal is to give you the information you need to understand what ICL surgery involves. That includes who it’s suitable for and how you can access this treatment locally. If you’re exploring your options for the first time or have been advised that laser eye surgery may not be suitable, this guide will provide the clarity you need.

What Is ICL Surgery?

ICL surgery involves placing a small, biocompatible lens inside your eye that sits just in front of your natural lens. The role of this is to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. This differs slightly to PRK, LASIK and SILK eye surgery as they actually reshape the cornea. ICL surgery preserves your natural lens and will not permanently alter the corneal structure. 

The procedure works with your eye’s anatomy, for a high-quality vision correction solution for any candidate in which LASIK, SILK or PRK may not be a viable option.

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Who Is the Right Candidate for ICL Surgery?

ICL surgery may be suitable for individuals who:

  • Have high short-sightedness that cannot be fully corrected with laser eye surgery.
  • Are not ideal candidates for eye surgery to correct vision due to corneal thickness or other factors.
  • Have a stable prescription and good overall eye health.

Eligibility is always determined with a specialist assessment. This is how we know that this is the correct treatment for you, making for a procedure that’s safe and effective for each patient.

Who May Not Be Suitable for ICL Surgery?

Not everyone is the right fit for ICL surgery. Factors that may prevent suitability include:

  • Vision that is still changing or unstable.
  • Certain eye conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma.
  • Anatomy that does not allow safe placement of the lens.

Your ophthalmologist will talk you through every consideration with you during your assessment. They’ll explain everything fully, giving you all the information you need to achieve the vision goals that matter to you.

ICL Surgery vs Laser Eye Surgery

ICL and laser eye surgery both aim to correct your vision, but they achieve it in different ways. It’s important to note that no treatment is necessarily better, it’s about the suitability for your own particular needs.

Feature

ICL Surgery

Laser Eye Surgery

Vision correction method

Involves implanting a lens inside the eye

Reshapes the cornea (including for astigmatism)

Reversibility

Lenses can be removed or replaced if necessary

Permanently alters corneal tissue

Suitability

Often preferred for higher prescriptions or thinner corneas

May suit lower prescriptions

Key note

Not “better” or “worse”—choice depends on individual eyes and lifestyle

Not “better” or “worse”—choice depends on individual eyes and lifestyle

Seeing the Benefits of ICL Surgery

ICL surgery presents a range of real benefits for the right candidate. This includes:

  • Effective for higher prescriptions not suitable for laser procedures.
  • Preserves the natural structure of each cornea.
  • Potentially reversible if changes are needed in the future.
  • Presents high-quality vision results for those who are eligible.

It’s these benefits that make ICL eye surgery a trusted alternative for patients seeking precise vision correction.

Taking Time to Consider the Risks

As with any surgical procedure, ICL surgery comes with potential risk attached. There may be temporary visual disturbances, infection, or changes in eye pressure. Our surgeons will always commit to ongoing eye monitoring so the long-term health of your eye remains the number one priority. A specialist assessment at the beginning is also there to address any concerns before proceeding. It’s always best to put your mind at ease by discussing any concerns you have at the start of your process.

What to Expect From ICL Surgery in Melbourne

At NewVision Clinics, ICL surgery Melbourne is performed as a day procedure. Typical steps include:

  • Pre-surgery assessment: Comprehensive eye testing and imaging so we know that this is the right treatment option.
  • Day of surgery: The procedure itself is quick and patients are awake with local anaesthesia.
  • Follow-up care: Post-operative checks are prioritised to ensure healing is progressing towards the right vision outcomes.

How We Know You’re Right for ICL Surgery

Determining whether ICL surgery is right for you involves:

  • A detailed eye examination by a qualified ophthalmologist. We’ve carried out over 40,000 laser eye procedures, so we fully understand the importance of this initial stage.  
  • Measurements and imaging of the eye to ensure correct lens sizing and placement.
  • A comprehensive review of your medical history and an open discussion of lifestyle factors.

When to Consider ICL Surgery in Melbourne?

Book a consultation with one of our fully qualified ophthalmologists if:

  • Laser eye surgery astigmatism has been recommended as unsuitable for you.
  • You have a high prescription that continues to impact your daily life.
  • You are exploring all possible options for long-term vision correction.

Our expert team is there with the personalised advice and guidance you’re looking for. If you’re ready to consider ICL surgery in Melbourne, call NewVision Clinics today on 1800 20 20 20 and get started on your journey to better vision.

Alternatively, head to our online booking form to book your no-obligation consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

ICL lenses are designed to provide long-term vision correction, but they can be removed or replaced if necessary.

The lenses are durable and typically last many years. Regular eye checks will always be carried out so you can be sure of continued optimal vision.

Yes, one of the true benefits of ICL eye surgery is its reversibility. Lenses can be exchanged if vision changes or other considerations arise.

Yes. NewVision Clinics offers ICL surgery Melbourne at our locations, providing expert care and the latest surgical technology.

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