- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: December 24, 2024
When considering Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery, one of the crucial decisions you’ll face is whether to have both eyes treated simultaneously (bilateral ICL) or to have each eye done separately (sequential ICL). At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic on Harley Street in London, we understand that this choice can significantly impact your experience and recovery. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding ICL Surgery
Before delving into the bilateral versus one-eye-at-a-time debate, let’s briefly review what ICL surgery entails.
Implantable Collamer Lens surgery is an advanced vision correction procedure that involves inserting a biocompatible lens between your natural lens and the iris. This state-of-the-art technique is particularly beneficial for those with high myopia, thin corneas, or dry eyes, making it an excellent alternative to traditional laser eye surgeries like LASIK.
At our Harley Street clinic in London, ICL surgery is performed with meticulous precision, typically taking just 20 to 30 minutes per eye. The procedure is minimally invasive, with a small, self-healing incision through which the folded ICL is inserted and then carefully unfolded and positioned.
Bilateral ICL Surgery: Pros and Cons
Bilateral ICL surgery involves treating both eyes during the same surgical session. Let’s examine the advantages and potential drawbacks of this approach.
Advantages of Bilateral ICL
- Quicker Visual Recovery: With both eyes treated simultaneously, you’ll experience balanced vision improvement right away. This can lead to a faster overall recovery and return to normal activities.
- Single Recovery Period: You’ll only need to go through the recovery process once, which can be more convenient for those with busy schedules.
- Cost-Effective: Bilateral surgery often works out to be more cost-effective, as you’ll only need one hospital admission charge.
- Reduced Time Off Work: With a single recovery period, you may need less time away from your professional commitments.
- Balanced Vision: Immediate balanced vision can help reduce eye strain and headaches that might occur if there’s a significant difference between your eyes.
Potential Drawbacks of Bilateral ICL
- Increased Initial Risk: Although rare, if a complication were to occur, it could potentially affect both eyes.
- Psychological Adjustment: Some patients may find it psychologically challenging to have both eyes treated at once.
One Eye at a Time: Pros and Cons
Opting for ICL surgery on one eye at a time involves two separate surgical sessions, typically performed one day apart or within a maximum of one week.
Advantages of One Eye at a Time
- Risk Mitigation: By treating one eye at a time, any potential complications are limited to a single eye.
- Easier Psychological Adjustment: Some patients find it less daunting to have their eyes treated separately.
Potential Drawbacks of One Eye at a Time
- Temporary Vision Imbalance: There will be a brief period where your eyes have different levels of correction, which can cause discomfort or visual disturbances. This is particularly challenging for ICL patients who typically have high prescriptions.
- Higher Overall Cost: Patients opting for surgeries on two different days’ pay extra compared to the bilateral price due to two separate hospital admission charges.
- Delayed Adaptation: The psychological adaptation is delayed, as having one eye corrected versus one uncorrected causes anisometropia unless a contact lens can be worn in the untreated eye.
Factors to Consider When Making Your Decision
When deciding between bilateral ICL surgery and treating one eye at a time, consider the following factors:
- Your Lifestyle and Work Commitments
If you have a demanding job or a busy lifestyle, bilateral surgery might be more suitable as it requires less overall downtime. However, if you can manage two separate recovery periods, the one-eye-at-a-time approach might be preferable.
- Your Comfort Level with Surgery
Some patients feel more at ease having one eye treated at a time, while others prefer to get the entire process over with in one go. Consider your personal comfort level with surgical procedures.
- Your Current Vision
If you have a significant difference in prescription between your eyes, your surgeon might recommend treating them separately to allow for any necessary adjustments.
- Financial Considerations
Consider your financial situation and any available financing options.
- Recovery Support
Think about your support system during recovery. If you have limited help available, you might prefer to have one fully functioning eye while the other recovers.
The Blue Fin Vision® Approach
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic on Harley Street in London, we understand that the decision between bilateral ICL surgery and treating one eye at a time is highly personal. Our approach is to provide you with all the necessary information and guide you towards the best decision for your individual circumstances.
During your consultation at our London clinic, our expert ophthalmologists will:
- Conduct a thorough eye examination
- Discuss your lifestyle, work commitments, and personal preferences
- Explain the pros and cons of each approach in relation to your specific case
- Address any concerns or questions you may have
- Provide a personalised recommendation based on your unique needs
Our goal is to ensure that you feel fully informed and confident in your decision, whether you choose bilateral ICL surgery or opt to have your eyes treated separately.
Recovery and Aftercare
Regardless of whether you choose bilateral ICL or one eye at a time, our Harley Street clinic provides comprehensive aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients experience improved vision almost immediately after surgery, with full stabilisation typically occurring within a week.
Your aftercare will include:
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress
- Detailed instructions for post-operative care
- Access to our team of experts for any questions or concerns during your recovery
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You
The decision between bilateral ICL surgery and treating one eye at a time is a significant one, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both approaches have their merits, and the best choice depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and eye health.
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London, we’re committed to providing you with the highest standard of care, regardless of which approach you choose. Our team of experienced surgeons on Harley Street uses state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure optimal results from your ICL surgery.
Remember, the goal is to achieve the best possible vision and improve your quality of life. Whether you opt for bilateral ICL or choose to have your eyes treated separately, you’re taking a significant step towards clearer, sharper vision.
We invite you to schedule a consultation at our Harley Street clinic in London to discuss your options in detail. Let us help you make an informed decision and embark on your journey to improved vision with confidence.
Your path to crystal-clear vision begins here at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic. Contact us today to take the first step towards a future where you can see the world with newfound clarity.
