Going Beyond LASIK for Vision Correction

At ICON Eyecare in Colorado, we are determined to find the best vision correction option for you. LASIK eye surgery is a popular choice, but it’s not the right one for every patient, so let us tell you about LASIK eye surgery alternatives. Our top eye doctors have hands-on experience with a wide range of vision correction procedures.

LASIK Alternatives

At ICON Eye Care in Colorado, we offer a range of refractive options for vision correction. Depending on your individual needs and goals, one of these vision correction procedures could be perfect for you:

1. Visian ICL™

Visian ICL is an Implantable Collamer® Lens that offers many benefits, especially for patients who cannot have LASIK surgery due to a high level of myopia (nearsightedness), thin corneas or dry eye. Visian ICL does not cause Dry Eye Syndrome, which can be a concern with LASIK. Visian ICL also offers UV protection and has a superb patient satisfaction rate.

Visian ICL is implanted behind the iris, in front of your eye’s natural lens during an approximately 20–30-minute procedure. You can expect quick vision improvement with minimal recovery time, and you will not be able to see or feel it once it is inserted. Unlike LASIK, which permanently changes the shape of the cornea, Visian ICL is an additive technology that can be removed, if needed. Ideal candidates for Visian ICL are aged 21 to 45 with moderate to severe nearsightedness (prescription between –3D and –20D) and a prescription that has been stable for at least one year. Visian ICL can also treat astigmatism (1.0D and 4.0D).

Learn More About Visian ICL.

2. PRK

Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a laser vision correction surgery in which an outer layer of the surface of the eye is removed in order to avoid an incision in the cornea. Like LASIK, a laser is then used to ablate the cornea in order to correct refractive errors. Visual improvement and recovery time may take a bit longer than LASIK eye surgery or Visian ICL lens implantation procedures but is still a great option for many people.

PRK may be an option for patients who cannot have LASIK surgery due to thin corneas but can only correct nearsightedness with a prescription up to -8 D. Ideal candidates for PRK are over 18 and have had a stable prescription for at least one year.

3. CLE

Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) is a vision correction surgery in which the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), just like cataract surgery. CLE can correct a range of vision errors depending on the type of IOL that is chosen.

This procedure is identical to cataract surgery and is typically performed on one eye at a time.

Learn more about Clear Lens Exchange.

Choosing the Right Vision Correction Surgery

There are many factors to consider when choosing a vision correction procedure. The best choice for you will depend on your prescription, your lifestyle, and the types of benefits you are seeking. At ICON Eyecare in Denver, our advanced eye care team has the experience that is essential in finding the right procedure for you. Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.