A IPCL is the New Generation Phakic Intraocular Lens - a special type of lens designed to correct visual problems much the same way as an external contact lens does. Unlike an external contact lens, an IPCL is implanted inside the eye, in front of the natural lens. It is as thin as a soft contact lens; therefore, it is called an Implantable Phakic Contact Lens (IPCL).
A The IPCL procedure is a high-quality refractive surgery, a premium alternative to laser refractive surgeries such as LASIK, SMILE, or PRK, providing clear and sharp vision. For those accustomed to the inconvenience of glasses or contact lenses, IPCL offers a significant improvement. It significantly reduces the dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
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IPCL is effective in correcting the following eye conditions:
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IPCL is capable of correcting almost all types of refractive errors. However, IPCL is particularly suited for:
To ensure suitability, please consult with your eye doctor.
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Yes. IPCL has a unique model for Presbyopia - a condition usually developing after the age of 40, where the natural lens of the eye becomes rigid and loses its ability to focus, resulting in difficulty reading near objects. It has patented Trifocal Optics that provide excellent distance, intermediate, and near vision.
To ensure suitability, please consult with your eye doctor.
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Individuals with the following pre-existing eye conditions may not be suitable for IPCL:
In addition, pregnant women and young patients who still do not have stable vision are not suitable for IPCL.
Kindly note, this is a partial list of pre-conditions; you should consult with your eye doctor to determine your suitability for the IPCL procedure.
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IPCL and LASIK (as well as SMILE or PRK) are refractive surgeries that aim to correct vision conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness). They are designed to provide individuals with excellent vision and significantly reduce dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Both LASIK and IPCL have proven to be safe and effective procedures when performed by experienced and skilled eye surgeons.
However, IPCL and LASIK utilize different approaches. LASIK involves reshaping of the cornea’s curvature by removing corneal tissue, while IPCL is an implantable lens placed between the natural lens and the iris (the coloured part of the eye). IPCL is an additive procedure that does not remove any corneal tissue.
Therefore, the IPCL procedure is reversible, and the IPCL can be removed, if needed, by an eye surgeon.
A The IPCL lens is small, foldable, soft, flexible, and moist. Since the lens does not affect the cornea nerve fibers, therefore, it does not induce dry eye syndrome.
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IPCL is the New Generation Phakic Intraocular Lens. Among its unique features are:
A Yes, IPCL can be removed from your eye by your eye surgeon. This means that if you experience any issues or changes in your vision after the procedure, the IPCL can be removed or replaced without altering the eye's natural structure, unlike laser-based refractive procedures like LASIK, which involve corneal tissue removal, which is not reversible.
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Before undergoing IPCL Surgery, your ophthalmologist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
Once your eyes are assessed, a custom-made IPCL lens will be designed specifically for you.
The actual IPCL implantation is a quick and painless procedure that usually takes 20–30 minutes per eye. It is performed under topical anaesthesia (numbing eye drops), ensuring a comfortable experience
After the surgery, your doctor will prescribe eye drops to aid in the healing process following the procedure, and you will be scheduled for a follow-up visit to review your healing.
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The actual IPCL implantation is a quick and painless procedure that usually takes 20–30 minutes per eye. It is performed under topical anaesthesia (numbing eye drops), ensuring a comfortable experience. Here’s what happens step by step:
1. A tiny incision (2.4mm) is made in the cornea.
2. The customized IPCL lens is inserted through the incision.
3. The lens is carefully positioned behind the iris and in front of the natural lens.
4. The surgeon adjusts the lens placement for optimal vision correction.
No stitches are required, as the incision self-heals over time.
Since the procedure does not involve corneal reshaping, it maintains the natural integrity of your eye.
A You can rest assured—thanks to eye-drop anesthesia, the procedure itself is painless. Throughout the surgery you’ll be awake and able to communicate with your doctor, so if you notice any discomfort, it can be addressed right away.
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Your doctor will prescribe eye drops, which typically include antibiotics and lubricating drops, to aid healing and prevent infection.
You will be able to go home after the procedure, and it is recommended that you have someone accompany you. You are free to leave the clinic as soon as you feel able, with protective glasses over your eyes.
Although you may see significant improvement in your vision as early as the first postoperative day, complete visual recovery may take 1-2 weeks to stabilize.
You can return to normal activities within 2-3 days after surgery.
You will need to be seen again by your surgeon on the day after surgery. Post-operative visits are required after one and four weeks, then as directed by your surgeon.
A No, an implanted IPCL is not visible to the naked eye or to anyone looking at the eye. The lens is positioned behind the iris, in front of the natural lens of the eye, and is designed to be invisible and undetectable once implanted.
A Yes. As long as you do not experience dry eyes, coloured contact lenses can be worn regularly 1 month after IPCL surgery.
The IPCL implantation procedure is a safe and effective procedure carried on by trained eye doctors.
It can correct various eye conditions such as Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism, and improve your distance vision without eyeglasses or contact lenses. A certain model of IPCL can also improve near vision for individuals who need reading glasses (Presbyopia)1.
However, the IPCL implantation is a surgical procedure, and as such, it carries potential side effects and serious risks.
For information about the main potential side effects and risks, and other safety information, please click the IPCL Safety. (link to safety)
For complete information about the potential side effects and risks, please consult with your eye doctor.
Before you proceed with the IPCL implantation procedure, your eye doctor will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to check whether you are suitable for IPCL implantation. Your eye surgeon will also explain to you in detail the benefits and risks of the IPCL implantation procedure, so that you may be able to make an informed decision.
All IPCL models received the European CE Mark and are approved by numerous regulatory authorities worldwide. The IPCL models for the correction of Myopia and Astigmatism are approved by PMDA in Japan. The IPCL models for correcting Hyperopia or Presbyopia are not approved in Japan.