ICL Implants in Colombia: The Reversible Alternative to LASIK

What Is ICL?

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a vision correction procedure that works completely differently from LASIK. Instead of reshaping your cornea, a biocompatible lens is implanted inside your eye — essentially a permanent contact lens that never needs to be removed or cleaned.

The lens is made of Collamer, a proprietary material that's biocompatible with your eye's natural chemistry. It's positioned between your iris (the colored part of your eye) and your natural lens.

Think of it as: A permanent, invisible contact lens that lives inside your eye and provides crystal-clear vision 24/7.

Who Is ICL For?

ICL is the best option for:

• High myopia (-6.00 to -20.00D): Beyond LASIK's safe correction range
• Thin corneas: Not enough tissue for safe laser treatment
• Severe dry eye: ICL doesn't affect the cornea or tear film
• Patients who want reversibility: The lens can be removed if needed
• Those seeking premium visual quality: Often produces sharper vision than laser procedures

Ideal age range: 21-45 years. Younger than 21, eyes may still be developing. Older than 45, natural lens changes may make lens replacement surgery more appropriate.

The ICL Procedure

1. Preparation: Dilating drops are applied. You receive local anesthesia (you're awake but won't feel pain).
2. Tiny incision: A small (3mm) self-sealing incision is made at the edge of the cornea.
3. Lens insertion: The foldable ICL is inserted through the incision using a special injector.
4. Positioning: The lens unfolds and is positioned behind the iris, in front of your natural lens.
5. No stitches: The incision self-seals. Procedure takes about 20-30 minutes total.

Recovery: Most patients notice improved vision immediately. Full stabilization within 1-2 weeks — faster than LASIK in many cases.

ICL Advantages Over LASIK

ICL Risks and Considerations

While ICL has an excellent safety profile, it does carry some unique considerations:

• Intraocular surgery: More invasive than laser procedures (lens goes inside eye)
• Cataract risk: Small long-term risk of early cataract development (~1-2%)
• Anatomical requirements: Needs adequate anterior chamber depth
• Cost: Most expensive vision correction option
• Annual monitoring: Recommended yearly eye exams for life

ICL in Colombia: Pricing

Colombia: $4,000 - $7,000 for both eyes

USA: $7,000 - $12,000 for both eyes

Your savings: $3,000 - $5,000+

The higher cost compared to LASIK reflects the cost of the lens implants themselves (manufactured by STAAR Surgical) and the more specialized surgical technique.

Should You Choose ICL?

ICL is likely your best option if:

• Your prescription is higher than -8.00D
• You've been told your corneas are too thin for LASIK
• You have significant dry eye concerns
• You want the sharpest possible vision quality
• Reversibility is important to you

LASIK may be better if:

• Your prescription is under -8.00D
• Your corneas are thick enough
• Cost is a major factor
• You prefer a less invasive procedure