---
title: Is ICL surgery suitable if you have retinal problems?
description: "ICL surgery is approached cautiously in the presence of retinal problems, and many patients are better managed without refractive surgery. ## Concerns with retinal disease Vision is limited by the back of the eye. - Conditions such as lattice, tears,…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/suitability/is-icl-surgery-suitable-if-you-have-retinal-problems/"
updated: "2025-12-24"
category: Suitability
---

# Is ICL surgery suitable if you have retinal problems?

ICL surgery is approached cautiously in the presence of retinal problems, and many patients are better managed without refractive surgery.

## Concerns with retinal disease

Vision is limited by the back of the eye.

- Conditions such as lattice, tears, vein occlusions, or inherited dystrophies reduce potential benefit
- High myopes already have elevated detachment risk, which surgery can modestly increase
- Need to ensure any active disease is treated and stable first
- Interfaces with future retinal surgery, where extra lenses may complicate access
- Long‑term prognosis may be uncertain, making elective refractive surgery less attractive

## When ICL might still be considered

Careful joint decision‑making is required.

- Stable retinal condition with good residual acuity
- Strong refractive indication, such as extreme myopia
- Retinal specialist agrees that additional risk is acceptable
- Full counselling about visual limits and detachment symptoms
- Regular retinal follow‑up maintained after surgery