Understanding ICL: A Lens-Based Alternative to LASIK

If you’re considering vision correction, it can be hard to know where to start. You’ve probably heard of laser eye surgery, but that’s just one option. And it may not be the one that suits your eyes best. 

At Wellington Eye Clinic, we offer three main types of vision correction: 

• Laser (such as LASIK or PRK) 

• ICL (Implantable Collamer Lenses) 

• CLR  (Custom Lens Replacement) 

Each option works differently and is suited to different eyes, lifestyles, and stages of life. Our role is to help you understand what each involves, and which one is most likely to give you the results you want. We focus on achieving outcomes that are safe, comfortable, and long-lasting. 

1. Laser Vision Correction 

Laser procedures, such as LASIK or PRK, reshape the front surface of your eye (the cornea) to improve how light is focused. They are commonly used to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. 

Laser is often ideal if you: 

• Are aged between 21 and 45 

• Have a mild to moderate prescription 

• Have healthy eyes with sufficient corneal thickness 

• Want a quick, comfortable treatment with fast results 

Consider this if: You’re active, do not experience significant dryness, and want a well-established option with a fast recovery time (LASIK downtime= 1 day, PRK downtime =6 days). LASIK or PRK tend to be preferred by those with steady prescriptions and no signs of lens ageing. 

2. Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) 

ICL places a soft, custom lens inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. It corrects vision from within, without removing tissue or reshaping the surface of the eye. 

ICL might suit you if: 

• You have a moderate to high prescription 

• Your corneas are too thin for laser 

• Your eyes are prone to dryness or sensitivity 

• You want a reversible option with excellent visual quality 

Consider this if: You’ve been advised that laser may not be suitable, or you prefer a lens-based solution that leaves the natural structure of the eye untouched. ICL is often chosen by individuals seeking long-term clarity and comfort, particularly those who spend a significant amount of time on screens or outdoors. 

3. Custom Lens Replacement 

This lens-based treatment replaces your eye’s natural lens with a tailored artificial one, called an intraocular lens or IOL, that restores clear vision at various distances. It is ideal for adults whose natural lens is beginning to age, often from the mid-40s onwards. 

Lens replacement may suit you if: 

• You are starting to notice difficulty reading or focusing up close 

• You wear reading glasses, bifocals, or varifocals 

• You want to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses 

• You would like to prevent cataract surgery later in life 

Consider this if: You are in your 40s or 50s and want a long-term solution that corrects both distance and near vision, including age-related changes. Many individuals are unaware that lens replacement is an option, particularly if they have been told laser may not address reading vision. 

How We Know What’s Right for You 

At Wellington Eye Clinic, we’ve helped thousands reduce their reliance on glasses and contacts. No two eyes, or lives, are the same. 

That’s why we take a personalised, thorough approach from the very beginning. 

Your consultation includes more than two hours of tailored diagnostic testing using advanced technology. We assess every detail of your visual system, including the shape and health of your cornea, the clarity of your natural lens, the quality of your tear film, and how your eyes work together. 

We also take the time to understand how you live. Whether your days are spent on screens, behind the wheel, staying active, or planning for life without reading glasses, your treatment is designed to support the way you move through the world, both now and into the future. 

This is what we call Lifestyle Vision Design. It’s how we match everyone with the approach that best suits them. The decision is shaped not only by your prescription or age but by how you want to live, what matters to you, and the visual demands of your day-to-day life. 

Once your assessment is complete, we clearly and thoroughly explain all suitable options to you. You will have time to ask questions, understand your choices, and decide with full confidence, supported by expert advice at every step. 

Designed Around You 

Every person we see is different. Every treatment plan we build is unique. 

Whether your priority is seeing clearly at work, reading comfortably, or staying active without discomfort, your treatment is designed to deliver clarity, freedom, and confidence in every area of your life. 

That’s the heart of Lifestyle Vision Design. 

Next Steps 

If you are ready to explore your options, we would love to meet you. 

There is no pressure and no obligation. You will receive expert guidance, personalised advice, and a clear recommendation based on what is right for your eyes and your life.