A small change in vision many years after ICL surgery is relatively common and usually reflects natural ocular ageing rather than a problem with the implant. Myopia progression, early presbyopia, or subtle crystalline lens changes can all alter visual clarity over time. ¹
Normal vision drift tends to be slow, symmetrical between eyes, and improves with minor optical correction. In contrast, rapid changes, asymmetry, increasing glare, reduced contrast, or night-vision disturbance warrant formal assessment.
Symptoms such as eye pressure discomfort or visual fluctuation may indicate vault alteration, cataract development, or other ocular pathology requiring investigation. ² Regular follow-up allows clinicians to differentiate benign age-related change from conditions that benefit from early intervention.
Understanding what constitutes normal change helps reduce anxiety while ensuring that genuine problems are identified promptly and managed safely. ¹ ²
References
- Bullimore MA, Brennan NA. Myopia control: why each diopter matters. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96(6):463–465.
- Packer M. Meta-analysis and review of the effectiveness and safety of the implantable collamer lens. Clin Ophthalmol. 2016;10:1059–1077.
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- What Is ICL Vault, and Why Is It Critical for Protecting the Eye Long Term?
- Is Gradual Vision Change Years After ICL Surgery Normal, and When Should It Be Investigated?
- When Is Laser Enhancement Appropriate After ICL Surgery, and When Is It the Wrong Tool?
- In Your 40s, Is ICL or Lens Replacement More Stable Over the Long Term?
- How Do Modern Clinics Calculate IOL Power Accurately in Eyes That Previously Had ICL Surgery?
- How Accurate and Stable Are Toric Trifocal Lenses After ICL Removal?
- Why Do Two Separate Consultations Improve Safety After ICL?
- Why Should High Myopes Plan Vision Correction Across Decades?
