MedGuideChina
Back to Treatments
Ophthalmology

ICL Implantable Lens

ICL人工晶体植入

Duration

1-2 days (single visit)

Recovery

1-3 days for basic activities, 1-2 weeks for full stabilization

$

Savings

~53% vs US

Price Comparison
China$2,500 - $5,000
$3,750
United States$6,000 - $10,000
$8,000
Save approximately 53%

Average savings compared to US prices

About This Treatment

The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is an advanced vision correction option ideal for patients with high myopia or thin corneas who are not candidates for LASIK or SMILE. China has extensive experience with ICL procedures, with leading eye hospitals performing thousands annually. The procedure is reversible, preserves the cornea, and provides excellent visual quality. Costs in China are 50-60% lower than in the US.

Procedure Steps
1

Pre-Operative Eye Assessment

Comprehensive eye examination including anterior chamber depth measurement, endothelial cell count, corneal topography, and biometry to determine the correct ICL size and power. A laser peripheral iridotomy may be performed beforehand.

Duration: 2-3 hours
2

ICL Implantation Surgery

Under local anesthesia, a micro-incision (3mm) is made at the edge of the cornea. The foldable ICL is inserted through the incision and positioned behind the iris, in front of the natural lens. The procedure is quick and typically painless.

Duration: 15-20 minutes per eye
3

Post-Operative Recovery & Follow-Up

Vision improvement is often noticed within hours. Eye drops are prescribed for 2-4 weeks. Follow-up visits at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month check lens positioning, eye pressure, and visual acuity.

Duration: 30 minutes per visit
Benefits
  • 50-60% cost savings compared to the US
  • Reversible procedure — the lens can be removed or replaced if needed
  • Preserves the cornea entirely — no tissue removal
  • Excellent visual quality, especially for high myopia (-6 to -20 diopters)
  • UV protection built into the Collamer material
Considerations
  • Risk of increased intraocular pressure requiring monitoring
  • Rare risk of cataract development with long-term lens presence
  • Requires adequate anterior chamber depth — not all patients are candidates
  • Possible halos or glare at night during the initial adjustment period

Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.