Studies show cataracts develop in about 1.96% of patients within 5 years after Implantable Lens surgery. The risk remains low, but you should know how your eyes change with age after getting Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs).
ICL surgery works well, but your natural lens stays in place. This means you could still develop cataracts as you age. Your risk might increase at the time you’re over 40 during implantation. The chances also go up if your short-sightedness is more than -12 dioptres, or your cornea’s distance from the lens is smaller[-5]. A complete 14-year research study shows only 2.7% of eyes with ICLs needed the lens taken out because of vision-affecting cataracts.
This piece explains what happens if cataracts form after your implantable contact lens surgery. You’ll learn about treatment choices and how we at Precision Vision London help with these complex cases. Our team uses cutting-edge diagnostic tools and creates personalised treatment plans. You can trust us to help maintain your clear vision throughout life, even if you need cataract surgery after your ICL implant.
How ICLs Work and What Changes With Age
Implantable Collamer Lenses offer a remarkable vision correction option for people who don’t qualify for laser eye surgery. You should know how these lenses work and age with your eyes to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Where the ICL sits in the eye
Your surgeon places the ICL behind your iris (the coloured part of your eye) and in front of your natural crystalline lens. This placement plays a vital role because it lets the implant work naturally with your eye’s existing structures. Unlike laser procedures that permanently change your cornea, ICL surgery adds a lens while keeping your eye’s natural anatomy intact.
These lenses use biocompatible collamer material a unique blend of plastic and collagen. They’re lightweight and hydrophilic, which means they mix well with water. This special makeup lets nutrients and gases flow through naturally to support your eye health. The latest EVO Implantable Collamer Lens has an innovative 0.36mm central hole (KS-Aquaport). This hole allows natural circulation of aqueous humour in your eye. The design helps reduce risks of complications like high intraocular pressure and corneal endothelial cell loss.
Why ageing still affects the natural lens
Keep in mind that ICLs provide excellent vision correction by working with your natural lens instead of replacing it. Your natural lens continues to age normally behind the ICL. Your natural lens becomes less flexible as you age. The thickness of your crystalline lens also increases, which can reduce the vault (space between the ICL and your natural lens). This might increase your risk of developing cataracts. Studies show that patients who developed cataracts after ICL surgery were usually older when they got their implants averaging 30.08 years compared to those who stayed cataract-free. The measured vault value was 0.275mm smaller in eyes that developed cataracts.
Common age-related changes in vision
Your eyes will experience natural age-related changes even with ICLs. Most people notice their near vision getting worse around age 45 as their eye’s natural lens loses flexibility. This condition, called presbyopia, makes it hard to read small print.
Other age-related changes might include:
- Small changes in corneal shape that affect vision quality
- Changes to your natural lens that impact overall vision
- Cataracts developing as part of normal ageing
ICL surgery results last indefinitely, and the implanted lenses should stay permanent. Your ophthalmologist recommends this procedure only after your vision stays stable for at least a year. You can remove or replace ICLs if needed. Most patients need reading glasses for presbyopia after age 45-50. If you develop cataracts later, having an ICL won’t cause any special problems during cataract surgery. This knowledge about age-related changes helps you set realistic expectations for your vision after ICL implantation.
Recognising Cataracts After ICL Surgery
Early detection of eye changes plays a vital role to keep your vision quality after Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery. Cataract development after ICL implantation rarely happens studies show just 1.96% of cases over 5 years of follow-up. You should know what to look for to catch problems early if needed.
Typical signs and symptoms
Your vision might show several characteristic changes if cataracts start developing after your ICL procedure:
- Progressive blurring that glasses can’t fix
- More sensitivity to glare, especially at night
- Problems with contrast and colour perception
- Vision loss of more than two lines on an eye chart
- Disruptive glare that gets in the way of daily activities
These symptoms usually develop slowly over years. All the same, cataracts can progress quickly in rare cases. Medical literature shows cases where cataracts progressed to a hypermature state within just one month after ICL implantation. Though this hardly ever happens, it shows why regular monitoring matters so much.
How cataracts differ post-ICL
Post-ICL cataracts look different from age-related ones. Anterior subcapsular cataract (ASC) tops the list—showing up alone or with other types in about 69% of affected patients. Next comes anterior cortical cataract (ACC), seen by itself or combined with other types in roughly 39% of cases. Your ICL’s position affects cataract development by a lot. Research shows that low vault height (the space between ICL and natural lens) leads to faster cataract formation. Aqueous humour flow to the crystalline lens’s front gets stymied when vault measures less than 250 μm—especially in older ICL models without a central port. This restricted flow can cause metabolic issues that speed up cataract formation.
Newer ICL models with the central Aquaport design have shown much lower cataract rates. The largest longitudinal studies with the EVO pIOL show almost zero cataracts, even with lower vault measurements.
When to seek an eye health review
You need regular follow-ups after ICL surgery to catch cataracts early. At Precision Vision London, we suggest booking a check-up right away if you notice:
- Vision quality getting worse
- More glare or haloes around lights
- Quick changes in your prescription
- Blurriness that develops or gets worse over time
Our specialists will give you a detailed eye exam using advanced diagnostic technology during your visit. This gives us a full picture of your vision and ICL position. We can spot any developing lens opacity and how it might affect your sight. Age matters when setting up monitoring schedules. Studies show that patients who got cataracts after ICL surgery were usually older at implantation time, around 30 years old. You might need more frequent check-ups if you received your ICL after age 40. The same goes for patients with lower initial vault height measurements. Keep in mind that even if cataracts develop, you can still get excellent vision through standard cataract surgery. This involves removing the ICL followed by intraocular lens implantation.
Treatment Options for Cataracts After ICL
You can restore your vision if cataracts develop after ICL surgery. The good news? Doctors can treat cataracts even with your ICL in place, though the treatment is different from standard procedures.
Single-stage vs staged procedures
Most patients get better results from a single-stage procedure that tackles both the ICL and cataract at once. This combined approach means less recovery time and just one surgery. Your surgeon might suggest a two-stage approach in rare cases: taking out the ICL first, then doing cataract surgery later. They might pick this option if they’re concerned about your eye’s stability or other complications. A multicenter study with 83 eyes showed that removing ICL and doing cataract surgery with IOL implantation at the same time is safe and reliable. Patients saw no major complications. That’s why doctors prefer the single-stage approach for most ICL patients who develop cataracts.
Removing the ICL and cataract together
The combined procedure works like this:
- Your existing ICL comes out first
- The cloudy natural lens (cataract) is removed
- A new intraocular lens (IOL) goes in
This surgery needs extra skill beyond regular cataract surgery because of the ICL. So picking a clinic with specialists who know complex cases is crucial. ICLs can give you clear vision for years. But what happens when cataracts show up later? Precision Vision London’s expert surgeons help plan ahead, making sure you get safe ICL removal and cataract lens replacement at the right time. Studies show great results for patients who get their ICL removed and cataract fixed together. One study found that 70% of patients’ eyes could see almost as well without glasses after surgery as they did with glasses before. Modern techniques really work wonders.
Choosing between monofocal and multifocal IOLs
After removing your cataract and ICL, you’ll need to pick the right replacement lens:
- Monofocal IOLs give you sharp vision at one distance usually far away but you’ll need reading glasses for close work. These lenses work great in dim light and offer crisp contrast. All light focuses on one spot, which makes images really sharp.
- Multifocal IOLs help you see at different distances, so you might not need glasses as much. A Cochrane review of 20 trials found that patients using multifocal lenses needed glasses less often than those with monofocal lenses.
Your surgeon will help pick the best lens based on your needs, lifestyle, and eye measurements. At Precision Vision London, we talk through all options and make sure you understand what each lens can do before you decide.
Visual Outcomes and Patient Satisfaction
Patients with previous ICL implants who get cataract surgery often see remarkable improvements in their vision. You can prepare for this process with confidence by knowing what lies ahead.
What to expect after surgery
Your vision may appear blurry right after the procedure but gets better within days. The temporary effect comes from swelling and the eye drops used during surgery. Most patients see major vision improvements within 24 hours.
Recovery usually follows this pattern:
- Discomfort and light sensitivity go away within the first week
- Vision becomes stable over several weeks
- Full recovery takes about four weeks
You’ll need medicated eye drops to prevent inflammation and infection. The drops are typically used for about four weeks.
How vision improves post-ICL cataract surgery
Combined ICL removal and cataract surgery often leads to extraordinary visual results. Studies reveal that 70% of eyes achieve post-operative uncorrected vision within one line of their pre-operative best-corrected vision.
Research shows these impressive outcomes:
- 61.6% of eyes achieve refraction within 0.5 D of target
- 84.7% reach within 1.0 D of predicted refraction
- Visual acuity improves by an average of 10.31 lines
Your eye needs about six months to fully adjust to the new intraocular lens, and vision keeps getting better during this time.
Realistic expectations and quality of life
Our team at Precision Vision London sees consistently high satisfaction rates after cataract surgery following ICL. Clinical studies back this up, with 92.4% of patients saying they’re “very” or “extremely” satisfied with their results.
Patients notice improvements beyond just visual acuity:
- Overall quality of vision
- Night driving ability
- Self-confidence and daily convenience
A study looking at combined ICL removal and cataract surgery found patient satisfaction scores jumped from 1.8 (out of 10) before surgery to 7.9 afterward. These numbers show how well this treatment brings back quality of life.
Why Choose Precision Vision London for Your Care
The right clinic choice to manage cataracts after ICL implantation depends on expertise and technology. Precision Vision London gives you distinct advantages for these complex cases.
Our expertise in complex cataract cases
Our independent, surgeon-led practise on Harley Street brings exceptional expertise to ophthalmic care. The surgical team ranks as the best in the UK. Our collective expertise in complex cases helps us treat patients who other clinics turned away.
Advanced diagnostic and surgical technology
Precision Vision leads as the first UK clinic with the state-of-the-art Alcon Refractive Suite the most advanced non-laser theatre in the country. This groundbreaking technology delivers exceptional precision during cataract surgery after ICL implantation.
Personalised treatment planning
We tailor treatments to each patient’s eyes. Our complete consultations take about 2 hours. Experienced refractive optometrists conduct thorough testing. You then meet our Medical Director to create your personalised treatment plan.
Ongoing support and follow-up care
Our aftercare programme runs for a full year and has:
- Regular post-operative checks throughout the year
- Access to the UK’s largest independent optometrist network
- Free fine-tuning within the first year if needed
Book your consultation today and get a vision solution built for life.
Conclusion
ICL implantation offers an exceptional vision correction option. Your natural lens will still age behind the implant. You might develop cataracts later in life, especially if you were over 40 at the time of implantation or had certain risk factors. In spite of that, proper care and expertise can manage this situation well.
The risk of developing cataracts after ICL surgery stays relatively low. Long-term studies show just 1.96% over five years. Early detection through regular follow-up appointments will give a timely intervention. Of course, doctors usually address both the ICL and cataract together in a single-stage procedure that gives excellent visual outcomes.
Precision Vision London’s world-renowned surgical team excels at managing these complex cases. Our state-of-the-art Alcon Refractive Suite – the first of its kind in the UK – allows surgeons to perform these delicate procedures with unprecedented precision. Two-hour consultations provide a full picture, while personalised treatment plans ensure care that matches your unique visual needs.
Most patients see remarkable improvements after cataract surgery following ICL implantation. They achieve vision within one line of their previous best-corrected sight. On top of that, our one-year aftercare programme supports your recovery trip every step of the way. Your experience with ICL implants can span decades with proper care. Should cataracts develop, Precision Vision London’s expert surgeons, advanced technology, and personalised care will restore your vision effectively. Clear vision for life starts with understanding your options. Choose specialists who will support you throughout your visual experience – from original ICL implantation through any future vision needs.
Key Takeaways
Understanding what happens when cataracts develop after ICL surgery helps you maintain excellent vision throughout your life with proper planning and expert care.
- ICLs work alongside your natural lens, which continues ageing and may develop cataracts in 1.96% of cases over five years.
- Cataracts after ICL present as progressive blurring, glare sensitivity, and contrast difficulties requiring immediate professional assessment.
- Combined ICL removal and cataract surgery in one procedure achieves excellent outcomes with 70% reaching pre-operative vision levels.
- Modern surgical techniques deliver 92.4% patient satisfaction rates with significant quality of life improvements post-surgery.
- Expert care at specialised clinics ensures safe, precise treatment using advanced technology like the Alcon Refractive Suite.
While cataract development after ICL implantation is uncommon, choosing experienced surgeons with advanced diagnostic technology ensures optimal outcomes. Regular monitoring allows for early detection, and when treatment becomes necessary, modern surgical approaches restore vision effectively whilst maintaining the long-term benefits of your original ICL investment.
FAQs
Q1. Does ICL surgery increase the risk of developing cataracts? While the risk is relatively low, ICL surgery can slightly increase the chance of cataract formation, especially in older patients with high myopia. Studies show only about 2% of ICL patients develop cataracts within 5 years post-surgery.
Q2. What is the typical age range for ICL candidates? ICL surgery is generally recommended for patients between 21 and 45 years old who are nearsighted. Ideal candidates have not had previous eye surgeries and do not have a history of eye diseases like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.
Q3. Can cataracts still develop after ICL implantation? Yes, cataracts can still develop after ICL surgery. The natural lens remains in place behind the ICL and continues to age normally, which means cataracts may form over time, particularly in patients who were older at the time of ICL implantation.
Q4. What are the long-term effects of ICL surgery? While ICLs are designed to be a permanent vision correction solution, some long-term effects may include a slight increased risk of cataract formation. However, the vast majority of patients experience excellent long-term vision outcomes without complications.
Q5. How is cataract surgery performed on eyes with ICLs? When cataracts develop in eyes with ICLs, surgeons typically perform a single-stage procedure. This involves removing both the ICL and the cataract, followed by implanting a new intraocular lens. This combined approach is safe, effective, and yields excellent visual outcomes for most patients.
