ICL implantable contact lens surgery can sometimes be performed in just one eye, but this needs careful assessment.
When monocular ICL may help
Occasionally one eye has a much higher prescription or different focusing need. Treating that eye alone can balance vision and reduce dependence on glasses.
- Best considered when the untreated eye already sees well without correction
- Useful when laser surgery is not suitable because of thin corneas
- Helps some patients with large differences between the two eyes anisometropia
- Pre-operative trial with contact lenses can simulate the effect
Key considerations for single-eye ICL
The brain must comfortably combine images from both eyes. Surgeons weigh visual benefit against surgical risk for an otherwise healthy fellow eye.
- Some people may notice imbalance or depth-perception changes
- Long-term monitoring is needed for pressure, cataract, and lens position
- Patients must understand that future surgery in the other eye might be needed
- Discussion with a refractive specialist clarifies whether monocular treatment is wise
