Similar to LASIK or other vision correction procedures, STAAR Visian ICL surgery has minimal recovery time. In fact, most patients report being able to resume normal activities the same night as their surgery. The risk of complications is low, yet some surgeons will only perform Visian ICL on one eye at a time. At The Fifth Avenue Eye Center, however, Dr. Ilan Cohen was the first surgeon in the New York City area to perform ICL and has mastered the technique so that you have the option of having both eyes done on the same day if you wish.

The Recovery Process

Immediately after your surgery, the tiny incisions made in order to implant the Visian Collamer lenses will begin to heal on their own. Since they’re so small, there is no need for sutures to help them close. Dr. Cohen will give you medicated drops to prevent against infection or inflammation. In addition, you will need to schedule a follow up visit for the next day to check on your progress. You will also be given a protective eye shield to wear at night to guard the eye from accidental injury or rubbing while you sleep. Although most people report little to no pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medication as needed during recovery if you notice irritation. If you feel a moderate to high level of eye pain, you must contact our office immediately, as this is not typical.

When Will I Be Able to See More Clearly?

You can often expect to see better as soon as the surgery is completed. However, most patients see the maximum effects of Visian ICL eye surgery one to seven days after the procedure. And although you can resume normal activities within 24 hours of surgery, your eye will actually take four to eight weeks to fully heal.

The Effectiveness of Visian ICL

By and large, people who undergo Visian ICL procedures in our New York City office are satisfied with their results. With a very high success rate, Visian ICL is one of the most popular vision correction techniques on the market today. In a clinical study of nearly 300 Visian ICL patients, 95% gained vision 20/40 or better (20/20 is considered “perfect,” and 20/40 is the legal requirement most states carry for driving without the aid of corrective eyewear) and 59% had 20/20 vision or better and no longer required glasses three years after surgery.

While Visian ICL eye surgery is permanent, the implantable contact lenses used in this procedure can be removed or replaced as needed as the eyes age. It is also important to keep in mind that since this surgery is aimed at patients younger than 45, many people will still have to wear reading glasses in later years (usually after 45), as presbyopia sets in. To learn more about STAAR Visian ICL surgery, contact our New York City or New Jersey office. If you are considering contact lens implants, take advantage of a Visian ICL consultation to learn how you can see the world more clearly in just minutes.