Who it suits
Adults over 21 with a steady prescription, especially high ones: implantable lenses treat short sight up to about -18, long sight up to about +10 and astigmatism up to about 4.5. A scan checks there is room in the front of the eye. Cataract, glaucoma and repeated inflammation inside the eye rule it out.
The day and after
Numbing drops and usually a sedative, a 2 to 3 mm opening, and the folded lens unfolds behind the iris. Both eyes on the same day or about a week apart. You can't drive yourself home after treatment. Have someone collect you or book a taxi, bring sunglasses because light will feel harsh, and leave the Luas or DART for another day. Most people see well enough to work the next day.
The risks
Any operation inside the eye carries a small risk of infection, retinal detachment, a cataract forming earlier than it would have, and under- or over-correction. The lens can be removed or swapped, which laser can't offer.
Cost
€2,900 to €3,900 per eye, €5,800 to €7,800 for both, usually with follow-up for the first months included. It treats defective eyesight, so tax relief at 20% should apply.
Questions people ask
Where is ICL surgery done in Dublin?
In private eye clinics and hospital eye centres. Ask whether the surgeon who assesses you does the operation.
Can an implantable lens be removed?
Yes, if it needs to be, for example before cataract surgery later in life.
Is ICL worth it over laser?
For high prescriptions and thin corneas it is often the safer choice. For everyday prescriptions laser is simpler and costs less.