ICL suits younger patients with clear lenses, while lens replacement suits older patients where the lens is already ageing or presbyopia is significant.
People better suited to ICL
Preserving the natural lens is advantageous.
- Age roughly 21-45 with minimal or no cataract
- Desire to maintain natural accommodation
- High prescriptions or corneal issues where laser is less suitable
- Healthy anterior segment anatomy and good endothelial counts
- Comfort with the concept of a removable, add‑on lens
People better suited to lens replacement
Lens‑based solutions address ageing changes.
- Age typically over 45-50 with established presbyopia
- Early or symptomatic cataracts
- Wish to tackle both distance and near vision with one lens procedure
- Less concern about losing natural accommodation already reduced by age
- Understanding of permanent lens change and its risks and benefits
