Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Surgery

Reversible Freedom from Glasses

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery corrects your vision without removing corneal tissue, making it an ideal option if you’re not suitable for laser eye surgery or prefer a reversible alternative.

Close-up of clear, healthy eyes, representing success after ICL lens implant surgery

What is an ICL?

An ICL is a soft, flexible lens that is carefully placed inside the eye, positioned between the coloured iris and your natural lens. It works alongside your own lens to correct vision, without removing any tissue from the eye.

Who Can Benefit?

ICL is particularly helpful for people who:

  • Have moderate to severe short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism
  • Have been told their corneas are too thin for laser eye surgery
  • Suffer from dry eyes and want to avoid worsening symptoms
  • Prefer a reversible treatment
  • Are aged 21 to 45 years with a stable glasses prescription

Key Advantages:

  • Sharp, Clear Vision – Many patients describe even better visual clarity than with glasses or contact lenses
  • No Laser. No Dryness. Just Crystal Clear  Vision – Unlike laser treatments, ICL doesn’t affect the tear film
  • Permanent Clarity with a Reversible Solution – The surgery is reversible if you are not happy.
  • Quick Procedure and Recovery – Each eye takes about 20 minutes, and most people resume normal activities within a couple of days
Fit couple jogging outdoors, enjoying visual freedom after implantable collamer lens surgery

How the Procedure Works

  • A tiny incision is made at the edge of the cornea
  • The ICL, which is custom-made for your eye, is folded and gently inserted
  • It unfolds into place behind your iris and starts working immediately

These lenses are crafted from a biocompatible material containing UV protection and are designed to stay in place permanently unless you choose to have them removed.

Your Next Steps

During a consultation, Mr Lane will carry out comprehensive scans and measurements to check your eye health and confirm whether you are a suitable candidate. He will also explain any other vision correction options so you can make an informed choice.

If you’re hoping to enjoy clear vision without the need for glasses or daily contact lenses, ICL could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

FAQs About Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Surgery

Yes, ICL surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure with a strong track record. It has been performed worldwide for over 20 years and approved by regulatory authorities. Because the ICL works with your natural lens and doesn’t remove any corneal tissue, it preserves the structure of your eye—making it a popular choice for patients who aren’t suitable for laser surgery. Like all procedures, there is a small chance of risks which will be discussed during consultation.

Most patients recover quickly after ICL surgery. The procedure takes about 20 minutes per eye, and many people notice improved vision almost immediately. Most patients return to work and daily activities within 1–2 days. You’ll be given eye drops and follow-up appointments to ensure everything is healing as expected. Night vision, glare, and halos may take a few weeks to fully settle.

You may be a good candidate for ICL if you are aged 21–45 with a stable glasses or contact lens prescription. It is especially suitable for people with moderate to severe short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism, especially if they’ve been told they’re not suitable for laser eye surgery due to dry eyes or thin corneas. A consultation with Mr Lane includes detailed scans to confirm eligibility.

Yes, modern ICLs can correct astigmatism as well as short- or long-sightedness. These toric ICLs are custom-made to your eye’s exact measurements and positioned with precision to give clear, sharp vision. If you’ve been told in the past that your astigmatism is too high for laser correction, ICL may still be an option.

ICLs are designed to be permanent, offering long-term vision correction without needing to be replaced. However, they can be removed or exchanged if necessary, making the procedure fully reversible. Because the lens is made from a biocompatible material, it remains stable and comfortable inside the eye for many years. Regular check-ups ensure everything continues to function well.

See the world clearly again with a safe, reversible alternative to laser surgery.

Book your consultation for Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Surgery with Mr. Lane

Services

Photo of Mr Mark Lane consultant vision correction surgeon

Why Choose Mr. Lane?

Expert Surgery Without the Wait

Specialist training you can trust — without NHS delays.

  • Received corneal fellowship training at Moorfields Eye Hospital, one of the world’s leading centres for corneal and refractive eye surgery.
  • Rapid access to surgery – no long NHS waiting lists.

Truly Personalised Care

Every step explained. Every decision tailored to you.
  • I personally oversee all your consultations and perform your surgery myself.
  • Each stage of your treatment is explained in clear, straightforward language.
  • You’ll never feel hurried. Every recommendation is open, honest, and tailored to your needs.

Regional Access to Excellence

Outstanding care – closer to home.
  • I operate from top hospitals and eye centres across the region.
  • Flexible appointment times to fit around your life and commitments.
  • Multiple locations mean shorter waits, flexible appointments, and care delivered where it suits you best.

Locations

ADDRESS

Midland Eye Private Clinic
50 Lode Ln
Solihull
B91 2AW

DAYS

Thursday (all day)

SERVICES OFFERED AT THIS LOCATION

  • Assessment of corneal conditions:
    • Pterygium
    • Dry eye disease
    • Keratoconus & cross-linking
  • Refractive surgery
    • Refractive cataract surgery

ADDRESS

Optimax Birmingam
96 Bristol Rd
Birmingham
B5 7XJ

Optimax Liverpool
4 George’s Dock Gates Liverpool
L3 1QA

SERVICES OFFERED AT THIS LOCATION

  • Refractive surgery
    • Laser refractive surgery
    • Refractive cataract surgery
    • ICL surgery

ADDRESS

Nuffield Health Warwick
The Chase
Old Milverton Lane
Leamington Spa
CV32 6RW

SERVICES OFFERED AT THIS LOCATION

  • Assessment of corneal conditions:
    • Pterygium
    • Dry eye disease
  • Refractive cataract surgery

ADDRESS

Newmedica Eye Health Clinic & Surgical Centre – Worcester
Unit 5 Berkeley House
Berkeley Business Park
Wainwright Rd
Worcester
WR4 9FA

SERVICES OFFERED AT THIS LOCATION

  • Assessment of corneal conditions:
    • Pterygium
    • Dry eye disease
  • Refractive surgery
    • Refractive cataract surgery

ADDRESS

Meriden Hospital
University Hospital Site
Clifford Bridge Road
Coventry
CV2 2LQ

DAYS

Awaiting

SERVICES OFFERED AT THIS LOCATION

  • Assessment of corneal conditions:
    • Pterygium
    • Dry eye disease
    • Keratoconus & cross-linking
  • Refractive surgery
    • Refractive cataract surgery
    • ICL surgery

Book A Consultation

Contact us at 01926 945105

We’re here to help at every step. 

Whether you have questions about your vision, want to explore treatment options, or are ready to book a consultation with Mr Lane, we’d be happy to hear from you.

Our experienced team is dedicated to making your experience smooth and stress-free.

Alternatively, please visit his private practice booking pages at