How to Prepare for Implantable Contact Lens Surgery

For many people dealing with blurry vision, frequent prescription changes, or discomfort with regular contacts, long-term vision correction can feel like a necessity rather than a luxury. Others have been told they’re not ideal candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, severe nearsightedness, or dry eyes, leaving them searching for a safe, dependable alternative. Implantable contact lenses have become a trusted option, especially for adults who want lasting clarity without reshaping the cornea.

Patients across Ontario are also increasingly interested in procedures that offer stability, comfort, and predictable outcomes. At Laser Eye and Aesthetics, one of the most common concerns people share is uncertainty about how to prepare. They want clarity. They want safety. They want to know what to expect before their procedure. And they want reliable information, not medical jargon.

This guide from Laser Eye and Aesthetics walks you through what preparation looks like, why each step matters, and how to approach your upcoming procedure with confidence.

What Is Implantable Contact Lens Surgery?

Implantable contact lens surgery is a vision correction procedure in which a soft, biocompatible lens is placed inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. The lens works with your eye’s existing structures instead of removing tissue, which sets it apart from LASIK.

Many people appreciate that the implant is reversible. The lens can be removed or replaced in the future, giving patients more control over their long-term vision health. Because the cornea is not reshaped, dry eye symptoms tend to be minimal after surgery, making the procedure especially appealing for those already prone to dryness.

This option is commonly recommended for adults with moderate to severe myopia, thin corneas, or conditions that make laser-based treatments less suitable.

Benefits of Implantable Contact Lens Surgery

One reason interest in this procedure continues to grow is that it offers practical and lifestyle benefits.

Many patients report noticeable visual improvement within the first 24 hours. Because the cornea remains untouched, the procedure is comfortable, and recovery tends to be smooth. People who previously struggled with dryness often feel relief knowing this option minimizes nerve disruption.

The reversibility factor also brings peace of mind. Nothing is removed from the eye, so the implant can be exchanged if vision needs change over time. And for individuals who may need cataract surgery years down the line, this approach allows for more accurate future measurements.

For adults seeking vision correction that retains the natural structure of the eye, the implantable lens procedure offers a safe and dependable solution.

Who Is This Best For?

This treatment appeals to a specific group of patients, especially those who haven’t found success with glasses, contacts, or laser procedures.

Adults across a wide age range, from their early 20s to late 40s, tend to be the strongest candidates. It’s often recommended for people with significant nearsightedness, thin corneas, or pre-existing dry eye symptoms. If you’ve ever been told LASIK isn’t the right fit for you, this may be worth considering.

Residents searching for an implantable contact lens in ON often fall into the category of individuals who want long-term clarity with predictable results. And if you’re someone who likes step-by-step instructions, safety guidelines, and clear expectations, the preparation process tends to feel reassuring rather than overwhelming.

Your Guide to the Process and Expected Results

Preparing for this procedure is straightforward and designed to ensure your eyes are in the right condition for surgery. Here’s a look at the general timeline and what each stage involves.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Your eye care provider will begin with a comprehensive assessment. Expect imaging, measurements of the eye’s internal structures, and tests to evaluate your prescription stability. You may be asked to avoid wearing contact lenses for a period of time before your exam, since they can temporarily alter the cornea’s shape.

If you’re taking any medications or have eye-related symptoms, it’s best to share those details early. Everything is reviewed to ensure safe preparation for eye surgery and precise lens selection.

Treatment Day

The surgery is typically brief. Most patients are in the office for a couple of hours, with the procedure itself lasting less than 20 minutes per eye. The lens is inserted through a tiny opening and positioned behind the iris.

Comfort is a high priority. Numbing drops help ensure a smooth experience, and many patients describe only mild pressure or light sensitivity afterward.

Recovery and Downtime

Recovery is generally quick. Most people return to routine activities within a few days. Your care team will schedule follow-up visits to ensure your eyes are healing as expected and the lens is properly positioned.

Light sensitivity, mild redness, or slight blurriness can occur temporarily, but these usually resolve without issue.

When Results Appear

The improvement is often noticeable within the first day, and vision continues to refine over the following weeks. Many patients describe clear, crisp distance vision that feels natural.

Quick Answers to Common Concerns

Moving Forward With Confidence

If you’re considering long-term vision correction and want a procedure that respects the natural structure of your eye, implantable lenses may be the right choice. The preparation process is clear, the results are reliable, and the experience is designed with safety in mind.

Laser Eye and Aesthetics offers guidance from your first evaluation through each stage of ICL surgery preparation. Schedule your pre-op consultation today.