Cataract surgery is suitable after ICL surgery, but it requires removal of the ICL and careful planning of lens power and safety.
How cataract surgery is adapted
The procedure combines ICL explantation with lens replacement.
- Preoperative imaging to assess vault, anterior chamber depth, and endothelial health
- Removal of the ICL at the start of cataract surgery through controlled incisions
- Calculation of intraocular lens power using current biometric data
- Awareness that prior extreme myopia may still limit absolute best vision
- Close monitoring of pressure and corneal clarity after surgery
When extra caution is needed
Specific risks depend on the eye and the original ICL.
- Shallow chambers, narrow angles, or low endothelial counts
- Previous ICL‑related complications such as cataract, raised pressure, or pigment issues
- Need to coordinate care with the original refractive or ICL surgeon
- Discussion that standard cataract risks and ICL‑removal risks both apply
- Expectation of substantial improvement, but not always perfect correction
