Medically Reviewed by: Edward C. Wade, M.D., F.A.C.S.
ICL vs. LASIK: Visian ICL, Visian Toric ICL, and LASIK
Patients exploring their vision correction procedure options wind up having a debate between ICL vs. LASIK. The implantation of an ICL (implantable Collamer lens) or the use of LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) are both popular solutions for those struggling with vision loss due to refractive errors.
When comparing ICL vs. LASIK, several questions may arise. Is one type of procedure better for me than the other? Are both LASIK and ICL eye surgery safe? Is ICL surgery permanent, like LASIK?
Let’s explore the answers to these and other frequently asked questions regarding ICL vs. LASIK to help you choose the procedure that best fits your needs.
What’s the difference between, Visian ICL, Visian Toric ICL, and LASIK?
If you struggle with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and are ready to be free from glasses and/or contact lenses, you have several options available to you. ICL and LASIK surgeries are two of the most popular types of procedures. Depending on your eye health needs, one may serve you better than the other—which is how we distinguish them below.
LASIK
LASIK surgery is a refractive surgery that uses a laser to reshape the surface of the cornea. The procedure can help correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and can be performed in conjunction with many other eye procedures. It is renowned for its safety and for its short surgery recovery time. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for LASIK. For more information, read our article: Is My Vision too Bad for LASIK?
Visian ICL
The Visian ICL is an implantable, bio-compatible contact lense that can remain in your eye indefinitely, freeing you from the constant need to maintain and change your contacts. However, unlike LASIK, which has permanent effects, an ICL can be removed if a patient so wishes. ICLs are especially good for patients whose cornea’s are too thin or dry for them to be good candidates for LASIK. Unfortunately, Visian ICL can only be used to help those patients struggling with myopia (nearsightedness).
Visian Toric ICL
Until recently, patients with myopia who also had higher prescriptions and/or astigmatism would LASIK performed in conjunction with the use of an ICL to have all of their vision issues addressed. However, all of that changed when the FDA approved the Visian Toric ICL in 2018. Along with nearsightedness correction and all the other benefits of Visian ICL, the Visian Toric ICL can also address the issues caused by both higher prescriptions and astigmatism without the need for an additional LASIK procedure!
Is ICL better than LASIK?
When comparing ICL vs. LASIK, it can be tempting to ask which of the two procedures is “better.” Both procedures are safe but, like all surgeries, both contain risks. Both surgeries have a minimal recovery time and both procedures offer long-term solutions to patients living with refractive errors. So, which is better?
While some doctors may argue for one type of surgery over the other, the reality is that it depends on the patient. For that reason, we strongly encourage you to consult a trust ophthalmologist in Houston when choosing between these procedures.
Considering ICL Vs. LASIK? Request a consultation at Eye Center of Texas
Eye Center of Texas is home surgeons who have served as pioneers in multiple types of eye surgery, including the LASIK, Visian ICL, Visian Toric ICL procedures. We encourage you to explore which of these options might be best for you, then schedule a visit with our esteemed doctors to begin down the road toward clear vision.
With six convenient locations in the Greater Houston Area, Eye Center of Texas makes it easy to fix your vision in comfort. To request a LASIK consultation, call 713-395-1515. For other vision needs, please call Eye Center of Texas at 713-797-1010, or schedule an appointment online today.
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Houston/Bellaire
6565 W. Loop S., Suite 650Bellaire, TX 77401
Medical Office:
713-797-1010
Medical Fax:
713-357-7276
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Fax: 713-357-7278
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Greenhouse Medical Plaza2051 Greenhouse Road, Suite 110
Houston, TX 77084
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Medical Fax:
713-357-7276
The Woodlands/Conroe
100 Medical Center Blvd., Suite 118Conroe, TX 77304
Medical Office:
713-797-1010
Medical Fax:
936-647-1620
