ICL (IMPLANTABLE COLLAMER LENS)
in Singapore at The Straits Eye Centre
Assessment at The Straits Eye Centre by Eye Specialists in Refractive Care
Being told you are not suitable for LASIK or SMILE can feel like a dead end.
In some cases, alternative approaches such as ICL may still be considered after a proper assessment.
ICL is a lens-based vision correction option that may be suitable for selected patients depending on their eye condition and clinical findings.

Not suitable for LASIK does not always mean no options
ICL is one of several alternatives that may be considered
Suitability depends on your individual eye condition
No commitment is required after your assessment
Every recommendation is based on clinical evaluation, not a fixed pathway
Have You Noticed Changes in Your Vision?
If you rely on glasses or contact lenses for daily activities, refractive surgery could be an option to achieve clearer vision and greater freedom.

Blurry or Cloudy Vision
If your vision isn’t sharp even with glasses or contact lenses, you may benefit from a vision correction procedure.

Glare and Light Sensitivity
Bright lights, night driving glare, or halos around lights may be reduced with certain refractive surgeries.

Frequent Changes in Glasses
If your prescription changes often, an assessment can determine if you’re suitable for a long-term vision correction.

Difficulty with Daily Tasks
Challenges in work, sports, or travel due to reliance on glasses can be addressed through refractive surgery.
WHY LASIK MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR SOME PATIENTS
Common anatomical and clinical factors may affect whether laser vision correction is appropriate.
High Myopia
Laser procedures may not safely correct higher degrees of myopia
Thin Cornea
Insufficient corneal thickness may limit suitability for reshaping procedures
Dry Eye Profile
Laser procedures may worsen symptoms in patients with pre-existing dryness
Corneal Stability
Structural or topographic factors may affect long-term suitability

WHAT IS ICL (IMPLANTABLE COLLAMER LENS)?
ICL is a lens-based vision correction procedure that involves placing a biocompatible lens inside the eye to correct refractive error.
Unlike laser procedures, ICL does not involve reshaping the cornea.
Key Characteristics
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No corneal tissue is removed
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The natural lens remains in place
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The lens works with the eye’s internal structures
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In selected cases, the lens may be removed or replaced

WHO MAY CONSIDER ICL
Some patients who are not suitable for LASIK are later found to have alternative options after a detailed clinical assessment.
ICL may be considered for individuals who:
Are not suitable for LASIK or SMILE
Have high myopia or astigmatism
Have thin corneas
Prefer a non-laser approach
Suitability can only be confirmed after proper diagnostic scans and doctor evaluation.
ICL vs LASIK vs SMILE in Singapore: What’s the Difference?
The choice is not about which is better, but which is appropriate for your eyes.

ICL
Implantable Collamer Lens
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Method: Implantable lens
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Corneal impact: None
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Reversibility: Possible in selected cases
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Suitable for: High myopia, thin corneas
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Recovery: Varies by individual

LASIK
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis
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Method: Corneal reshaping
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Corneal impact: Permanent
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Reversibility: No
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Suitable for: Moderate refractive error
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Recovery: Typically fast

SMILE
Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
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Method: Keyhole corneal procedure
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Corneal impact: Permanent
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Reversibility: No
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Suitable for: Selected profiles
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Recovery: Moderate
What to Expect During Your Assessment
1
Eye Scans and Measurements
Detailed imaging to assess your eye condition
2
Doctor Consultation
Discussion of findings and suitability
3
Suitability
Review
Evaluation across LASIK, SMILE, and ICL
4
Cost Explanation
Clear breakdown of applicable costs
5
Your
Decision
No obligation to proceed
Most assessments are completed within a single visit.
You will receive a clear explanation before making any decision.
Experienced Refractive Doctors in Singapore
Your case will be reviewed by doctors experienced in both laser and lens-based refractive procedures.
Each recommendation is made based on clinical findings and individual suitability.
Frequently asked questions



Eye Clinics & Locations

REFRACTIVE SURGERY
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Reach Us
Tel: +65 6235 4522
HP: +65 8870 4700
Weekday 8:30am to 5:30pm
Saturday 8:30am to 12:30pm




