Hello, this is Goyang Shinsegae Eye Clinic.
Patients with severe or extremely high myopia require different criteria when choosing a vision correction procedure compared with those who have mild or moderate myopia.
Laser vision correction may not be suitable when the cornea is thin or when a large amount of corneal tissue would need to be removed.
In such cases, one option that may be considered is ICL implantation at an eye clinic in Mapo-gu.
Although ICL surgery is not recommended for everyone, it may be a suitable option for patients with extremely high myopia or severe astigmatism.
1. ICL Surgery Is Not Suitable for Everyone
ICL implantation at an eye clinic in Mapo-gu is not a procedure that everyone can undergo.
It may provide an alternative for patients with extremely high myopia or severe astigmatism. However, the first step is to determine whether the eye has sufficient space and suitable anatomical conditions for the lens to be positioned safely.
For this reason, a comprehensive examination evaluates more than visual acuity and refractive error.
The assessment may include whether:
✔ The anterior chamber depth (ACD) is at least 2.80 mm
✔ The corneal diameter, measured as white-to-white (WTW), is between 10.70 and 13.00 mm
✔ The corneal endothelial cell density is at least 2,000 cells/mm²
These measurements are evaluated together to determine whether a patient is eligible for surgery.
Choosing a treatment method that is appropriate for each patient’s individual eye condition is one of the most important parts of vision correction planning at a Mapo eye clinic.
“Does the Lens Have to Stay in My Eye for the Rest of My Life?”
This is one of the most frequently asked questions during consultations at a Mapo eye clinic.
ICLs are designed for long-term use and, if no particular problems develop, they can generally remain in the eye for many years.
If cataract surgery becomes necessary later in life, the ICL can be removed as part of the surgical process. Patients do not need to worry that the lens can never be removed once it has been implanted.
Regular follow-up examinations are important after surgery to monitor the condition of the eye and the position of the lens.
If an issue is identified, appropriate measures can be taken to help maintain stable vision and ocular health.
2. Why Can ICL Surgery Be Beneficial for Extremely High Myopia?
With laser vision correction, a higher prescription may require a greater amount of corneal tissue to be removed.
ICL implantation, on the other hand, can correct high myopia and astigmatism while preserving the corneal structure as much as possible.
Patients with extremely high myopia, such as a prescription of −10.00 diopters or more, may have fewer eligible treatment options. In these cases, ICL implantation may provide an alternative.
It may also be considered by patients who experience discomfort from thick glasses or have difficulty wearing contact lenses.
3. It May Also Help Correct Severe Astigmatism
Astigmatism can have a significant effect on visual quality, particularly when it occurs together with myopia.
Toric ICL models are available to correct both myopia and astigmatism, making them an option for some patients with high astigmatism.
However, a toric lens must remain aligned along the intended axis to provide appropriate correction. Postoperative examinations are therefore necessary to check whether the lens has rotated or shifted.
If rotation occurs, the lens may need to be repositioned to help maintain the intended visual correction.
4. ICL Surgery Also Has Factors That Must Be Considered
Every vision correction procedure offered at an eye clinic in Mapo-gu has both potential advantages and points that require careful consideration.
Because ICL surgery involves placing a specially designed lens inside the eye, some patients may initially feel uneasy about the procedure.
It also tends to cost more than LASIK or LASEK. A thorough consultation is therefore necessary to determine whether it is an appropriate option for the individual patient.
Selecting the correct lens size and power and positioning it securely in the intended location are important parts of ICL surgery.
A detailed preoperative examination should be performed to assess eligibility. Patients should also discuss the procedure with an ophthalmologist who has sufficient clinical experience before making a decision.
This process may help improve surgical safety and patient satisfaction.
There is no single answer that applies to everyone, such as “LASIK is always better” or “ICL is always better.”
If the eyes are suitable for laser vision correction, there may be no need to choose another procedure.
Conversely, depending on the condition of the cornea and the degree of myopia or astigmatism, ICL implantation may be considered a safer or more appropriate option.
Ultimately, the most important step is to select a procedure based on accurate examination results and the patient’s individual eye condition.
Patients with extremely high myopia should consider more than surgical fees or online reviews. They should carefully discuss the available options with an ophthalmologist at a Mapo-gu eye clinic and determine which treatment method is most appropriate for their eyes.
Thank you.
