ICL in Seoul: sharp vision without removing tissue
An Implantable Collamer Lens is a thin, flexible lens placed inside the eye in front of your natural lens. It corrects high prescriptions without removing any corneal tissue and can be removed or exchanged later.
How ICL works
ICL works like a contact lens that stays inside the eye. Through a tiny incision, the folded lens is inserted and unfolds behind the iris, where it sits invisibly in front of your natural lens.
Because the cornea is not reshaped, ICL is the go-to option for very high myopia, thin corneas and some patients with dry eye. It can be removed or replaced if your needs change.
Apgujeong Eye Clinic is an official ICL Training Center, and Dr. Byung Woo Ko has received the EVO ICL 3,000-eye milestone award.
Who ICL suits
Your 50+ test examination decides. These are the general patterns surgeons look for.
Often a good fit
- High myopia beyond laser range
- Thin or irregular corneas unsuited to laser
- Dry eye that rules out laser surgery
- Astigmatism with myopia (toric ICL)
- Patients who want a reversible option
May point to another option
- Shallow anterior chamber depth
- Low endothelial cell count
- Cataract already present: consider cataract surgery
- Uncontrolled glaucoma or uveitis
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Surgery day
- Measurements Final measurements confirm the lens size and power ordered for you.
- Numbing drops Drops and mild sedation if needed.
- Insertion The folded lens enters through a small incision.
- Positioning The lens unfolds and is positioned behind the iris.
- Check Eye pressure is checked before you go home.
Recovery after ICL
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Same day | Blurry and light-sensitive for a few hours. Eye pressure check. |
| Day 1 | Most patients see clearly. Follow-up exam. |
| Week 1 | Normal routine; avoid rubbing, swimming and heavy lifting. |
| Month 1 | Vision fully settled for most. |
| Yearly | Annual eye check to monitor the lens. |
Typical experience only. Your surgeon gives personal instructions after surgery.
Other procedures
SMILE Pro
The newest generation of SMILE on the VisuMax 800.
Learn about SMILE Pro → Flapless · laserSMILE LASIK
Small-incision correction with no corneal flap.
Learn about SMILE LASIK → Flap · laserLASIK
Proven laser correction with very fast recovery.
Learn about LASIK → Surface · laserLASEK
Surface treatment that preserves corneal tissue.
Learn about LASEK →Common questions
Can the ICL be felt or seen?
No. It sits inside the eye behind the iris and cannot be felt or seen by others.
Is ICL permanent?
It is designed to stay in place long term but can be removed or exchanged by a surgeon.
Why does ICL take longer to schedule?
Each lens is ordered to your measurements, so allow time between examination and surgery; your coordinator plans this with your travel.
ICL or laser?
For moderate prescriptions with healthy corneas, laser is often simpler. For high myopia or thin corneas, ICL usually gives better quality of vision.
Find out which procedure fits your eyes
Send your prescription and travel dates. A coordinator replies in English and books your 50+ test examination with a board-certified surgeon.
