ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) in Seomyeon, Busan
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a thin, flexible lens placed inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of the natural lens, to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism without removing corneal tissue. In Seomyeon, eye clinics perform detailed measurements to size the lens, then implant it through a tiny incision in a 15–30 minute procedure per eye. Vision often improves within a day.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is an ICL?
The Implantable Collamer Lens (안내렌즈삽입술) is a phakic intraocular lens: it works alongside your natural lens rather than replacing it. Made of a soft, biocompatible collagen-copolymer material, it is folded and inserted through a small incision, then unfolds in the space behind the iris. Modern designs include a tiny central port that helps fluid flow inside the eye. Because no corneal tissue is removed, the ICL is an option for people who are not good laser candidates.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults, typically in their twenties to mid-forties, with a stable prescription
- People with high myopia beyond comfortable laser ranges
- Those with thin corneas or borderline topography for laser
- Patients with enough space (anterior chamber depth) in the eye
A shallow anterior chamber, low endothelial cell count, glaucoma, cataract or other eye disease can rule out ICL.
What happens at the clinic
- Detailed screening: refraction, anterior chamber depth, endothelial cell count, eye width measurements, corneal topography and a dilated retina exam.
- Lens ordering: the correct lens size and power are calculated; toric lenses correct astigmatism.
- Surgery: after numbing, a small incision is made, the lens is inserted and positioned behind the iris.
- Post-op check: eye pressure is measured a few hours later.
- Follow-ups: next day, then over weeks and months to check lens position (vault) and pressure.
Recovery and aftercare
Vision is often clear the next day, though mild blur and glare may persist briefly. Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops as prescribed, avoid rubbing your eyes, protect against water entering the eye and avoid heavy exercise for the period advised. Many people return to office work within a few days.
Risks and side effects
Risks include raised eye pressure, glare or halos, lens rotation (for toric lenses), lens vault being too high or low (sometimes requiring exchange), cataract formation over time, and rare infection. Long-term monitoring of eye pressure and endothelial cells is advised.
Choosing a clinic for ICL in Seomyeon
- Ask how lens size is calculated and which measuring devices are used.
- Ask how often the surgeon performs ICL and how lens exchange would be handled.
- Ask whether both eyes are done on the same day or separate days.
- Confirm the long-term follow-up plan and what to do if pressure rises after you leave Busan.
- Check that lens ordering time fits your travel plans.
Timing for visitors
Lens ordering can take days to weeks after screening, so plan two visits or a longer stay. Seomyeon is a short ride from Busan Station on Line 1.
Key facts
- Treats: moderate to high myopia, with or without astigmatism
- Good for: thin corneas or prescriptions too high for laser
- Removable: the lens can be removed or exchanged if needed
- Procedure time: about 15–30 minutes per eye
- Anesthesia: numbing drops, sometimes with light sedation
- Key measurement: eye dimensions for lens sizing and vault
- Typical NHI coverage: not covered (elective refractive surgery)
Frequently asked questions
Is ICL better than LASIK for high myopia?
For high prescriptions or thin corneas, ICL is often preferred because it removes no corneal tissue and can give sharp vision. Your measurements decide which is safer.
Can an ICL be removed?
Yes. The lens can be removed or exchanged if needed, for example if sizing is not ideal or if cataract surgery is required later.
How long does ICL surgery take?
About 15–30 minutes per eye. Allow several hours at the clinic on surgery day for preparation and a pressure check afterward.
Will I feel the lens in my eye?
No. Once healed, the lens sits behind the iris and cannot be felt or seen by others in normal conditions.
What are the main risks of ICL?
Raised eye pressure, glare or halos, lens position issues and, over the long term, cataract formation. Regular check-ups help detect problems early.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.