ICL or LASIK: which surgery for high myopia?

ICL and LASIK both correct myopia, but in different ways: LASIK reshapes the cornea with a laser, while the ICL places a lens inside the eye without touching the cornea. For high myopia or a thin cornea, the ICL is often the more suitable option. The choice is made after a full assessment. This article compares the two techniques to help you understand.

ICL and LASIK: two different approaches

LASIK is a corneal surgery: the laser flattens the cornea to correct myopia. The ICL, or implantable lens, is a lens placed inside the eye, in front of the natural lens, without removing corneal tissue. It is an additive and reversible surgery. See the detail on the LASIK surgery and implantable ICL/IPCL lenses pages.

LASIK: pros and limits

LASIK offers a very fast recovery and excellent results for low to moderate myopia. It does, however, require a cornea of sufficient thickness. With a thin cornea, very high myopia or an irregular cornea, it may be contraindicated.

ICL: pros and limits

The ICL is particularly suited to high myopia and thin corneas, where the laser reaches its limits. It preserves the cornea and offers excellent visual quality. Like any intraocular surgery, it carries its own precautions and a specific follow-up. It is reversible: the lens can be removed if needed.

ICL or LASIK: the comparison table

How is the choice made?

The choice between ICL and LASIK depends on several parameters assessed during the preoperative work-up: the degree of myopia, corneal thickness and regularity, the depth of the eye's anterior chamber, age and lifestyle. High myopia or a thin cornea often point towards the ICL. Only a specialist examination can determine the right indication for your eye.

FAQ: ICL or LASIK

Is the ICL better than LASIK?

No technique is better in absolute terms. LASIK suits low to moderate myopia with a sufficient cornea. The ICL is often preferred for high myopia or thin corneas. The best choice depends on your eye and your expectations, assessed during the work-up.

Up to what myopia can LASIK be done?

LASIK corrects low to moderate myopia well. Beyond a certain degree, or if the cornea is too thin, the laser is no longer indicated and the ICL becomes a relevant alternative. The exact limit depends on corneal thickness and is determined at the work-up.

Is the ICL reversible?

Yes, the ICL is a lens that can be removed or replaced by your surgeon if needed. This is one of its advantages over LASIK, which permanently changes the cornea. This reversibility is still a surgical procedure, decided case by case.

Are ICL or LASIK reimbursed in Switzerland?

These surgeries for comfort are generally not covered by basic insurance (LAMal) [VERIFIER_DONNEE: conditions to be confirmed]. A detailed quote is provided at the consultation. Some supplementary insurers may contribute depending on the policy.

Is implanting an ICL painful?

The ICL is implanted under local anaesthesia and is generally not painful. Mild discomfort and light sensitivity may appear in the first hours. Visual recovery is fast, with close follow-up in the first days.

In summary

The ICL and LASIK are two effective solutions to correct myopia, each with its indications. For high myopia or a thin cornea, the ICL is often the more suitable option. To find out what suits your eye, book an appointment with Dr Arthur Hammer, an FMH ophthalmologist and FEBOS-CR, a referral surgeon for ICL implants in French-speaking Switzerland.