ICL Surgery Treatment in Bangladesh - Get Affordable ICL Vision Correction

What Are The Types Of ICL Surgery?

There are two variations of ICL surgery: soft lens and intraocular lens surgery. Although the two surgery types differ in their placement of the artificial lens, both ensure that the natural eye lens remains undisturbed.

• Soft Lens
  This type of ICL surgery involves placing a soft, flexible lens between the iris and the natural eye lens. Since the lens is composed of a biocompatible material, it is safe to implant into the eye. The procedure involves a tiny incision in the cornea and the subsequent placement of the lens into the eye. Given the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, no stitches are required and the incision is left to heal naturally.
• Intraocular lens
  This type of ICL surgery is specifically for individuals with severe nearsightedness who are ineligible for LASIK eye surgery. In this procedure, the lens is placed between the cornea and the iris, and the incision is closed with stitches. Intraocular lenses may degrade in their function over time and thus the patient may require reading glasses later in life.

ICLs are safe for implantation and provide UV protection, unlike other lenses. Advanced versions of ICLs consist of a hole at the center that allows for better gas and nutrient exchange. This unique feature eliminates the need for a preoperative iridotomy. Additionally, for patients prone to dry eye symptoms, there are specialized ICLs available that do not exacerbate these symptoms. Implantable contact lenses can cost between ৳ 70,000 and ৳ 1,20,000.

Diagnostic Tests Before ICL Surgery

Before ICL surgery, your ophthalmologist may perform the following diagnostic tests to assess your suitability for the procedure and formulate a treatment plan.

1. Visual acuity test: This test is performed to determine the clarity or sharpness of your vision. It may involve reading letters off of a chart from a specific distance.
2. Refraction test: This test provides your ophthalmologist with a measure of your refractive error, i.e. how light bends as it passes through your eyes.
3. Corneal topography: This technique is used to map the shape and irregularities of the cornea. It is an important test as it helps decide the size and power of the ICL to be implanted.
4. Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of the cornea which is critical to ensure that the ICL is positioned at the correct depth in the eye.
5. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy: This enables a detailed examination of the intraocular structures and identification of any abnormalities. It is particularly useful to estimate the lens vault, which refers to the distance between the posterior surface of the ICL and the natural eye lens.
6. Applanation tonometry: This test is used to measure intraocular pressure.
7. Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This test creates detailed images of the retina that are useful for detecting retinal tears and lesions.
8. Dilated fundus examination: This exam involves dilating the pupils to examine intraocular structures such as the retina, optic nerve, etc. It can help diagnose retinal disease or any other abnormalities.
9. Medical history and medication review: In addition to the aforementioned diagnostic tests, the surgeon also reviews the patient’s medical history and ongoing medications to ensure there are no contraindications to ICL surgery.

How To Prepare For ICL Surgery?

The following recommendations can be useful to prepare for ICL eye surgery:

1. Be informed: Familiarize yourself with the ICL procedure, potential complications and benefits, recovery timeline, and long-term vision expectations. This will help you make informed decisions and address any concerns before the surgery.
2. Consult reliable sources: Seek information from your ophthalmologist, reputable medical websites, and established patient communities.
3. Disclose medical history and medications: Inform your surgeon about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, ongoing medications, as well as previous eye surgeries.
4. Preoperative evaluation: Your surgeon may recommend additional tests or consultations with other specialists to ensure your candidacy for the surgery and optimize surgery outcomes.
5. Dietary adjustments: Following your surgeon’s specific dietary recommendations will help optimize your health and prepare your body for the surgery.
6. Medication management: Discuss any medication adjustments with your surgeon to ensure their effectiveness and minimize potential interactions during the surgery.
7. Eye care before the surgery: Avoid using eye makeup, contact lenses, and harsh lotions around your eyes to minimize the risk of infection.
8. Postoperative protection: Invest in protective eyewear such as goggles or sunglasses to shield your eyes from dust, debris, and bright light during recovery.
9. Transportation arrangements: Ensure you have a trusted family member or friend to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you during the initial recovery phase.
10. Schedule adequate rest: Take sufficient time off work to allow for proper rest and recovery after the surgery.

What Happens During ICL Surgery?

A week before your ICL surgery, you may be required to visit your ophthalmologist. During this visit, your ophthalmologist will create several small holes between the anterior chamber and the natural lens of your eye. This is necessary to ensure optimal intraocular pressure and prevent fluid build-up within the eyes. After the procedure, you may be provided antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.

ICL eye surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure and takes 30 minutes to complete. It involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The eye surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb your eyes. This will reduce discomfort during the procedure. The area around your eye will also be cleaned and a lid speculum will be used to keep the eyelids open.
2. Creating an incision: Using a femtosecond laser, the surgeon will create a small incision (approximately 3 mm) at the base of the cornea. The small incision will reduce discomfort and promote a faster recovery after the surgery.
3. Inserting the ICL: The surgeon will carefully introduce the folded ICL lens through the incision and with the help of specialized instruments position it between the iris and the natural eye lens.
4. Securing the ICL: Once the ICL has been correctly positioned, it will unfold on its own and adhere to the posterior surface of the iris, eliminating the need for stitches.
5. Completion of the procedure: Following lens placement, the surgeon may administer topical medications and cover the eye with a protective patch. The small incision will be left to heal naturally.

How To Recover After ICL Surgery?

Patients may require a week to 10 days to recover from ICL surgery. Following the recommendations below can facilitate a speedy recovery:

1. Eye drops: Regular use of prescribed eye drops is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. Strictly follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding the dosage and frequency of your prescribed eye drops to aid healing.
2. Sun protection: Increased light sensitivity is common in the initial days after surgery. It is important to protect your eyes from direct sunlight by wearing sunglasses. This will minimize discomfort and promote recovery.
3. Sleeping position: Sleeping on your side during recovery can minimize pressure on the eyes and reduce the risk of discomfort and pain.
4. Prioritize rest: Be sure to limit strenuous activities which may put additional strain on the eyes and hinder recovery.
5. Attend all follow-up appointments: It is recommended to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure you are recovering as expected. These visits allow your surgeon to track your progress and provide personalized advice to promote healing.
6. Eye rubbing: Resist the urge to rub your eyes, even if you experience irritation or soreness. This can worsen discomfort and potentially scratch the cornea.
7. Swimming and hot tubs: Avoid contact with pools, hot tubs, and other potentially bacteria-laden water sources for at least several weeks following surgery to minimize the risk of infection.
8. Excessive bending: Limit activities that involve significant bending, as this can place undue pressure on your eyes and potentially impede healing.
9. Eye makeup: Refrain from using eye makeup for the recommended period after surgery. Makeup can introduce chemicals and potential pathogens that may irritate the eyes and increase the risk of infection.

What Are The Risks And Complications Of ICL Surgery?

ICL surgery is a safe procedure. However, as with any surgery, it may be associated with some risks and complications. These may include:

1. Glaucoma: If the implanted collamer lens is of an incorrect size or is positioned improperly, it can lead to increased pressure within the eye. This can cause glaucoma.
2. Vision loss: This may occur if the intraocular pressure remains high for a prolonged period.
3. Early cataracts: ICL can impede the circulation of fluid within the eye, which may lead to the development of cataracts. An incorrectly sized ICL and chronic inflammation induced by the implanted lens can also contribute to cataract formation.
4. Blurry vision: If the ICL leads to the development of cataracts and glaucoma, you may also experience blurry vision as an additional side effect. Blurry vision may also result from an incorrectly sized ICL.
5. Cloudy cornea: Eye surgery can decrease the number of corneal endothelial cells leading to a cloudy cornea. Age may further compound the problem as it can also contribute to the loss of endothelial cells.
6. Retinal detachment: In rare instances, eye surgery may lead to detachment of retinal cells from the back of the eye. If this occurs, you should seek emergency medical treatment.
7. Eye infection: Infection is another rare complication that may lead to vision loss.
8. Additional surgery: In some cases, additional surgery may be necessary to correct issues related to the ICL.

When To See A Doctor?

If you experience any of the following postoperative complications, you should seek immediate medical care.

1. Severe pain: Complications such as a dislocated lens or an infection may cause intense pain in the eye.
2. Excessive redness or swelling: Some redness and swelling are normal after the surgery. However, if it persists, it warrants examination by your surgeon.
3. Sudden vision changes: Any abrupt changes in vision including seeing blurred or distorted images may indicate lens displacement.
4. Discharge from the eye: Sticky discharge from the eye may occur due to an infection.
5. Nausea or vomiting: A systemic reaction or complications due to anesthesia may cause nausea or vomiting after the surgery.

Is The Cost Of ICL Surgery Covered Under Health Insurance?

The cost of ICL surgery in Bangladesh is generally not covered under basic health insurance plans. However, some insurance providers may provide coverage if the patient’s refractive power is equal to or greater than 7.5 diopters. It is important to note that the extent of coverage may vary between providers or a waiting period may be applicable before a claim can be made. It is best to consult your health insurance provider to know the full terms and conditions of your plan.