Rediscover Clear Vision with Implantable Contact Lenses
A reversible, alternative when laser eye surgery isn’t suitable, precision vision correction without removing corneal tissue.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Implantable Contact Lens Surgery at a Glance
Quick facts about Implantable Contact Lens surgery to help you understand the basics
- Key Advantages
Reversible, no corneal tissue removal, good option for thin corneas/higher prescriptions
- Finance
Transparent prices; 0% APR finance options available (via partner finance).
- Why Choose
Expert eye surgeons providing implantable contact lens treatment since the year 2000
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Reversible
- UV Protection
- Fast Recovery Time
- Invisible and Natural Feel
- Suitable for a Wide Range of Prescriptions
What is an Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)?
An Implantable Contact Lens (ICL), also known as an Implantable Collamer® Lens, is an advanced vision correction procedure that treats refractive errors by placing a thin, biocompatible lens inside the eye. The lens sits behind the iris and in front of your natural lens, allowing light to focus accurately on the retina and providing clear, sharp vision.
Unlike traditional contact lenses, an Implantable Contact Lens is permanently positioned inside the eye and cannot be seen or felt once implanted. Unlike laser eye surgery, including LASIK and PRK, ICL surgery does not reshape or remove corneal tissue. Instead, it is an additive procedure, preserving the natural structure of the cornea. In many cases, the lens can also be removed or exchanged in the future if required.
Implantable Contact Lenses can be used to treat a range of refractive errors, including:
- Short-sightedness (Myopia) – difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.
- Long-sightedness (Hyperopia) – difficulty focusing on nearby objects.
- Astigmatism – blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens.
ICL surgery is often recommended for people with moderate to high prescriptions, thin corneas, or for patients who may not be suitable candidates for laser eye surgery. Following a comprehensive consultation, your consultant ophthalmologist will assess your eyes, prescription and lifestyle to determine whether an Implantable Contact Lens is the most appropriate treatment to achieve your vision goals.
Types of Implantable Contact Lens at Centre for Sight
Please be aware that your consultant will recommend the most suitable lens option to suit your eyes and lifestyle needs.
Lens Type
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Lens Type
Standard (spherical) ICL
Key Features
Corrects myopia or hyperopia (no astigmatism)
Pros
Simpler design; lower cost
Cons
Doesn’t correct astigmatism (unless combined with other correction)
Lens Type
Toric ICL
Key Features
Has cylinder power to correct astigmatism
Pros
Treats myopia + astigmatism in one implant
Cons
More complex alignment; risk of rotation
Lens Type
“EVO” / modern ICL variants
Key Features
E.g. hole in central optical zone for fluid flow (no need peripheral iridotomy)
Pros
Facilitates aqueous flow, reduces risk of pupillary block
Cons
Newer designs may have less long-term data (though many now have long experience)
The Implantable Collamer Lens Procedure
What are the benefits and risks of Implantable Contact Lenses?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
Benefits (vary by procedure):
Clearer vision, possibly reducing or eliminating dependence on glasses or conventional contacts
Maintains corneal integrity (no tissue removed)
Reversible or exchangeable (if refraction changes or lens becomes problematic)
Good option for high prescriptions or those unsuited for LASIK
Minimal long-term maintenance (no daily insertion/removal)
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Requires intraocular (inside the eye) surgery
Potential for cataract formation over time
Possible lens rotation (especially in toric design)
Rare risks: infection, inflammation, retinal detachment, pigment dispersion, endothelial cell loss
For some patients, full 20/20 vision may not be achieved, or additional enhancements may still be needed
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Book a comprehensive eye examination to better understand your vision and available treatment options.
Am I suitable for Implantable Contact Lenses?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
To be considered suitable, you will generally need to meet the following criteria:
Age: usually ≥ 21 (some say 21–45 or up to 60) with stable refraction
Stable prescription for at least 6–12 months (no significant change)
Refractive error within the device’s range (e.g. –0.50 to –18.00 D myopia; +0.50 to +10.00 D hyperopia; astigmatism up to ~6 D)
Adequate anterior chamber depth (distance between cornea and lens) and safe endothelial cell count
Healthy eyes (no active eye disease, uncontrolled glaucoma, uveitis, severe cataract)
Realistic expectations and willingness to accept risks
The implantable contact lens procedure may not be suitable for:
Very shallow anterior chamber depth (insufficient space)
Low endothelial cell count or corneal endothelial disease
Active ocular disease (such as uncontrolled glaucoma, uveitis, eye infections)
Significant lens opacity or early cataract
Unstable refraction or progressive myopia
Severe dry eye, severely abnormal cornea
Certain anatomical anomalies (angle crowding, narrow angles)
Patients beyond a certain age where natural lens changes or cataract risk becomes high
Costs and Finance Options
Transparent, Fixed Prices for Implantable Contact Lens Surgery (no hidden extras):
Consultation: £465
Non-Toric Implantable Contact Lens: £3,826
Toric Implantable Contact Lens: £4,196Procedure cost and implantable lens (deposit included)
Structured aftercare following your procedure, for six months
24-hour emergency helpline and personalised aftercare plan
All necessary diagnostic testing and post-operative reviews
Related Procedures
Standard LASIK
From £2,595
Per Eye
Corrects distance vision
Consultant-led surgery
Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning
Laser-assisted procedure
24-hour emergency support
Optional 0% APR finance up to 24 months
Implantable Contact Lens
From £3,826
Per Eye
Personalised vision correction plan
Suitable for thin corneas and higher prescriptions
Suitable for those who want to be free from glasses
Comprehensive care package
3 months follow up care
LASEK / PRK
From £2,593
Per Eye
Suitable for thin or irregular corneas
Consultant-led surgery
Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning
Surface laser correction
24-hour emergency support
Optional 0% APR finance up to 24 months
Flexible Finance Options
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our Consultants work with all the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
0% APR Financing
6-24 month finance options. Credit is provided subject to affordability, age and status. Minimum spend applies.
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, or Laser Lens Replacement
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.
* Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Implantable Contact Lenses
FAQs
Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions about Implantable Contact Lens surgery, helping you understand what to expect and whether treatment could be right for you.
What is an ICL and how is it different from LASIK?
Will I still need glasses after ICL?
Many patients achieve 20/20 or close to it and no longer require glasses for distance. However, some may still need weak reading glasses (especially with presbyopia) or minor enhancements in rare cases.
Is ICL surgery painful?
No. The procedure is pain free due to the numbing drops. You may feel mild pressure, but surgery takes 10-15 minutes per eye.
How long does recovery take?
Vision usually improves within 24 hours and most people return to work within 1-2 days, with vision stabilising further over the coming weeks.
Can the lens be removed or changed later?
Yes, one of the key advantages of ICL is reversibility. If your refraction changes or complications develop, the lens can be explanted or exchanged.
Is ICL better for dry eyes?
How long does ICL last?
ICL’s are designed to be a permanent solution for vision correction. They generally only need removal if your prescription changes or you develop cataracts.
What aftercare will I receive?
After ICL surgery, aftercare is simple and supportive, with regular check-ups and eye drops to ensure smooth healing and clear, comfortable vision. You can find more information in our aftercare booklet.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.
Patient Success Stories
Absolutely exceptional
From my initial consultation on 30th September to my follow up appointment on 28th October having had cataract surgery and multi focal lenses inserted in both eyes I have received exceptional care, kindness and professionalism. The entire procedure has far exceeded my expectations and absolutely everyone in the team have been incredible. I was made to feel special every step of the way which was painless and totally comfortable. I can wholeheartedly recommend Centre For Sight at East Grinstead.
Cataract
Jan McKinnell
A friend recommended Centre for Sight.
I had two cataracts removed and am delighted with the outcome. All the staff were highly professional, took meticulous care and their work was exemplary. Particular thanks to Adora who was so kind and reassuring throughout. I highly recommend Centre for Sight for anyone considering treatment.
Eventually I went to Specsavers in Egham for some mild driving glasses and the optician looked into my eyes and said that he had never seen such a good job on lens replacements. Best he had ever seen.
Cataract
Florence Angell
As I write this – five days after the first eye was done, I can see clearly! I’m hoping for further improvement as the coming weeks pass.
Overall, the team are extremely professional, all led under the leadership and expertise of Mr Daya. He only has one objective – to make your vision better. And that he has achieved.
Thank you so much.
Best wishes,
Nick
Cataract
MCALEER /NICHOLAS MR
Cataract Surgery Performed Expertly.
Cataract surgery performed expertly by Mr Sheraz M Daya on both eyes. Trifocal lense implants in one procedure and I am now glasses free with better than perfect vision. From start to finish the attention to detail, friendly professionalism and expertise of everyone at Centre For Sight was outstanding.
I cannot praise Mr Daya and his team too highly, and would recommend the procedure to anyone. It truly can be life changing.
Many thanks to everyone at Centre For Sight and in particular Mr Daya.
Cataract
Des Farrell
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About Centre for Sight
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