- 1-2 days (single visit)
- 1-3 days for basic activities, 1-2 weeks for full stabilization
- 53%
China versus the U.S.
- China clinical rate
- $2,500 – $5,000
- $3,750
- United States
- $6,000 – $10,000
- $8,000
- You save
- ~53%
- $4,250 per procedure
Prices are approximate ranges. Actual cost depends on hospital, surgeon, materials, and case complexity.
What the procedure involves.
The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is an advanced vision correction option ideal for patients with high myopia or thin corneas who are not candidates for LASIK or SMILE. China has extensive experience with ICL procedures, with leading eye hospitals performing thousands annually. The procedure is reversible, preserves the cornea, and provides excellent visual quality. Costs in China are 50-60% lower than in the US.
Step by step.
Pre-Operative Eye Assessment
Comprehensive eye examination including anterior chamber depth measurement, endothelial cell count, corneal topography, and biometry to determine the correct ICL size and power. A laser peripheral iridotomy may be performed beforehand.
ICL Implantation Surgery
Under local anesthesia, a micro-incision (3mm) is made at the edge of the cornea. The foldable ICL is inserted through the incision and positioned behind the iris, in front of the natural lens. The procedure is quick and typically painless.
Post-Operative Recovery & Follow-Up
Vision improvement is often noticed within hours. Eye drops are prescribed for 2-4 weeks. Follow-up visits at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month check lens positioning, eye pressure, and visual acuity.
- 50-60% cost savings compared to the US
- Reversible procedure — the lens can be removed or replaced if needed
- Preserves the cornea entirely — no tissue removal
- Excellent visual quality, especially for high myopia (-6 to -20 diopters)
- UV protection built into the Collamer material
- Risk of increased intraocular pressure requiring monitoring
- Rare risk of cataract development with long-term lens presence
- Requires adequate anterior chamber depth — not all patients are candidates
- Possible halos or glare at night during the initial adjustment period
Ask the AI for hospitals that handle icl implantable lens.
Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.