The Visian ICL represents a break-through in lens implant technology that now allows many Phoenix patients to achieve independence from their glasses or contact lenses. Drs. Moretsky and Cassidy are Phoenix LASIK experts, who also now offer the Visian ICL. The web page below describes the Visian ICL.
Imagine the luxury of taking perfect vision* for granted. Now, with the Visian ICL, you are finally able to do just that.
The Visian ICL is an implantable contact lens that works with the eye to correct vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses that go on the surface of the eye, Visian ICL is surgically inserted into the eye where it provides excellent quality of vision for a wide range of correction needs.
The Visian ICL is the first lens of its kind to receive FDA approval for use in the United States. It is based on many years of research and development in adapting the proven technology of the IOL (intraocular lens) used for cataract surgery. The IOL cataract procedure is familiar to Ophthalmologists and is performed safely on millions of patients each year. While the technology is similar, the Visian ICL procedure differs from cataract surgery as the natural lens is not removed from the eye. Instead, the Visian ICL is placed in front of the natural lens and works with it to correct vision.
If you are nearsighted, you may be a candidate for Visian ICL. There are many unique advantages of the lens, including the fact that you may qualify for surgery, even if you have been turned down for LASIK or other surgical procedures. The future of refractive surgery is now available, see what you've been missing:
Performance - Provides excellent quality of vision with predictable and stable results
Simplicity - Inserted through a micro incision utilizing a procedure that is familiar to the surgeon. The lens is invisible to both you and observers. It requires no maintenance
Versatility - Capable of correcting a wide range of nearsightedness and is removable if necessary
Biocompatibility - The lens is made from Collamer, a soft, flexible lens material offering unparalleled biocompatibility
Safety - Safe, proven procedure that is familiar to ophthalmologists
Surgical Procedure
One to two weeks prior to surgery, your doctor will make a small opening with a laser to allow fluid to pass between the lens and the front chamber of the eye. The actual Visian ICL procedure typically takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. (Please note that someone will have to drive you to and from surgery.) Normally, very little discomfort is associated with this procedure. A light topical or local anesthetic is administered and a mild sedative may be given. Eye drops or oral medication may be prescribed. You will come back the next day for a follow-up visit.
Advantages
Quality of Vision
The Visian ICL offers unparalleled quality of vision, providing excellent contrast. Two unique factors help explain this superior optical performance. First, the Visian ICL is made of Collamer -- a soft, flexible lens material that contains a small amount of collagen --making the lens extremely biocompatible for a lifetime of clear vision. Second, the lens is placed inside of the eye, where it continues to focus light accurately without any maintenance required.
Safety
The Visian ICL is inserted into the eye by an Ophthalmologist through a small, micro incision. The lens unfolds in the eye and is positioned between the iris and the natural lens where it stays indefinitely. The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Advanced lens material
The Visian ICL is made of Collamer, an advanced lens material that has unique properties. Collamer transmits light and reduces reflections that can interfere with vision, so you see clearly. Made of a copolymer and collagen, Collamer is also highly biocompatible. It allows the Visian ICL to rest quietly in position while accurately correcting vision. Collamer is the only lens material made with collagen --the best choice for a lens that is going to remain inside your body for a lifetime.
Removable
The Visian ICL does not alter any structures within the eye or on the cornea. If necessary, it can be removed from the eye by a simple surgical procedure.
Invisible and undetectable
You won't be able to see the Visian ICL in your eye, and neither will anybody else. Exceptional quality of vision will be the only reminder that you have had 21st century vision correction.
Excellent for a wide range of vision correction needs Extreme refractive error
Anyone seeking clear vision may be a candidate for the Visian ICL, including patients with extreme or special vision correction needs.
Thin corneas
The cornea is the curved surface on the front of the eye. The Visian ICL does not have any effect on the cornea and may be appropriate if you have thin corneas.
Dry eyes
Visian ICL does not cause or contribute to dry eyes.
Is the Visian ICL right for you?
Consult with Dr. Moretsky and Dr. Cassidy and ask about the unique advantages of the Visian ICL. More than 50,000 patients now have this lens, and it may be just right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are candidates for Visian ICL?
If you are between 21 and 45 and nearsighted, you are an excellent candidate for Visian ICL. It is preferable that you have had no previous ophthalmic surgery or history of ophthalmic disease such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy.
Exactly where is Visian ICL placed in the eye?
Visian ICL is placed in the "posterior chamber," behind the iris and in front of the eye's crystalline lens. The lens does not touch any internal eye structures and stays in position.
What is the track record of Visian ICL?
Extensive research and development preceded the introduction of Visian ICL. It is now being used by more than 50,000 patients worldwide. The satisfaction rate among patients is extremely high --above 99% (FDA US Clinical Trial). Visian ICL provides excellent and stable outcomes.
What is Visian ICL made of?
The Visian ICL is made of Collamer, an advanced lens material that is highly biocompatible. Collamer does not cause a reaction inside the eye and contains an ultraviolet filter that provides protection to the eye.
What if your vision changes?
Visian ICL offers treatment flexibility. If your vision changes dramatically, the lens can be removed and replaced, or another procedure can be performed at any time. With Visian ICL, you can wear glasses or contact lenses if necessary. Visian ICL does not help presbyopia (difficulty with reading in people over 40), but you can add reading glasses if needed.
What is involved in the Visian ICL procedure?
One to two weeks prior to surgery, your doctor will make a small opening with a laser to allow fluid to pass between the lens and the front chamber of the eye. The actual Visian ICL procedure typically takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. (Please note that someone will have to drive you to and from surgery.) Normally, very little discomfort is associated with this procedure. A light topical or local anesthetic is administered and a mild sedative may be given. Eye drops or oral medication may be prescribed. You will come back the next day for a follow-up visit.
Can they dry out or get dirty like a contact lens?
No. Visian ICL avoids problems experienced with traditional contact lenses. It is designed to remain in place inside your eye, without maintenance. A routine, annual visit with your eye doctor is recommended to make sure everything is fine.
How long does Visian ICL stay in my eye?
The Visian ICL is intended to remain in place in the eye without maintenance. Should it become necessary, the lens can be removed by a certified Ophthalmologist.
Can Visian ICL be seen by the naked eye?
No. The lens is positioned behind the iris where it is invisible to both you and observers. You enjoy a cosmetic appearance that is natural. Only your doctor will be able to tell that vision correction has taken place.
Can Visian ICL be felt once it is in place?
The lens is not noticeable after it is put in place. It does not attach to any structures within the eye and stays in position.
"I am so pleased with the ICL surgery...due to my degree of bad vision and wearing extended night contacts for so many years LASIK was not a good option for me. I tried for months to get my eyes in shape for it. However, I am very pleased with the speed and clarity of my vision with the Visian ICL surgery."
