If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK or you’re simply exploring long-term alternatives to glasses and contact lenses, you might be wondering: What is an Implantable Collamer Lens — and could it be the right choice for you?
At Miramar Eye Specialists, we’ve helped countless patients across Ventura County — from Oxnard to Simi Valley — rediscover the freedom of clear, unaided vision through a safe and advanced procedure called ICL surgery.
Whether you have moderate to severe nearsightedness or you’re seeking a LASIK alternative that’s gentle on dry eyes and thin corneas, the implantable collamer lens offers a powerful, reversible solution designed with your long-term eye health in mind.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the implantable collamer lens — what it is, how it works, who it’s for, and what to expect if you choose to have the procedure done here in one of our eight Ventura County locations.
Let’s take a closer look at this life-changing lens technology.
What Is an Implantable Collamer Lens?
An Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a soft, flexible lens that’s surgically placed inside the eye — between the iris and the natural lens — to correct common vision issues like moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia), with or without astigmatism. Unlike contact lenses, which sit on the surface of the eye, or LASIK, which reshapes the cornea, the ICL works from within the eye, enhancing vision without altering the cornea’s natural structure.
The lens is made from Collamer, a proprietary material composed of collagen (a naturally occurring protein in the body) and a copolymer that ensures exceptional biocompatibility. This means the lens is well tolerated by the eye, rarely causes immune reactions, and offers UV protection, helping protect long-term eye health.
Backed by Science and FDA Approval
The ICL has been FDA-approved since 2005, and over 2 million ICL procedures have been performed worldwide to date, according to STAAR Surgical. Clinical studies have shown a 99.4% patient satisfaction rate, one of the highest in all vision correction surgeries.
In fact, a recent study published in Clinical Ophthalmology found that over 95% of patients achieved 20/20 vision or better following EVO ICL implantation — a newer, no-flap version of the lens now widely available in the U.S. and used by Miramar Eye Specialists.
Why Patients in Ventura County Are Asking About ICL
For many patients in Ventura, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, and beyond, the ICL offers a new path to clear vision — especially if they:
- Have been told they’re not candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or chronic dry eyes
- Want a reversible solution that doesn’t permanently alter the shape of their eye
- Are seeking a long-term option for vision correction without the maintenance of contact lenses
How Does an ICL Work?
An Implantable Collamer Lens works by adding a corrective lens inside your eye — without removing your natural lens or reshaping the cornea. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that offers lasting visual clarity, particularly for people with moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia).
Where the ICL Sits in the Eye
During the procedure, your eye surgeon places the soft, flexible ICL between the iris (the colored part of your eye) and the natural lens, in a space called the posterior chamber. Once implanted, the lens bends light rays so they focus directly on the retina, correcting blurry vision caused by refractive errors.
The ICL is:
- Invisible to others
- Undetectable to the wearer
- Designed to stay in place permanently, though it can be removed or replaced if necessary
Here’s a simplified visual to help illustrate:
| Eye Structure | Function |
| Cornea | Light entry; remains untouched |
| Iris | Colored part of eye; sits in front of the ICL |
| Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) | Corrects vision; sits behind the iris |
| Natural Lens | Works in harmony with the ICL |
| Retina | Where focused light creates vision |
Quick Procedure, Lifelong Results
Implanting the lens takes around 15–30 minutes per eye, and many patients notice a dramatic improvement in vision within 24 hours. Because the cornea isn’t altered, healing is often quicker and more comfortable compared to procedures like LASIK or PRK.
This safe and reversible approach is one reason why thousands of patients from Oxnard, Simi Valley, and throughout Ventura County choose ICL surgery every year.
Who Is a Good Candidate for ICL Surgery in Ventura County?
If you’re tired of depending on glasses or contacts and want a long-term vision correction solution, the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) could be a strong fit — especially if you’ve been told you’re not a good candidate for LASIK or PRK. At Miramar Eye Specialists, we offer personalized consultations across Ventura County, helping patients in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Simi Valley, and beyond find out if ICL is right for them.
Ideal ICL Candidates
The ICL is typically recommended for patients who meet the following criteria:
- Age 21 to 45 (vision should be stable for at least a year)
- Nearsightedness between -3.00 and -20.00 diopters
- With or without mild to moderate astigmatism
- Thin corneas or dry eyes that make LASIK riskier
- Have no history of eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts
- Want a reversible procedure that doesn’t remove or damage tissue
Local Insight: At our Ventura and Oxnard clinics, we often see patients who were disqualified from LASIK due to corneal thickness but find success with ICL.
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate?
While ICLs are a great option for many, they aren’t right for everyone. You might not be eligible if you:
- Are over age 50 and already developing cataracts
- Have significant hyperopia (farsightedness) — the ICL primarily treats myopia
- Have a history of eye infections, uveitis, or retinal issues
- Are pregnant or nursing (hormonal changes can affect vision)
| Good Candidate | Not Ideal for ICL | |
| Age | 21–45 | Over 50 with cataracts |
| Prescription Range | -3.00 to -20.00 diopters | Significant farsightedness |
| Corneal Thickness | Thin corneas (LASIK not safe) | Normal, LASIK-safe corneas |
| Other Factors | No history of eye disease | Eye disease, pregnancy, glaucoma |
At Miramar Eye Specialists, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why we offer comprehensive exams and ICL evaluations at all eight of our Ventura County offices. If you’re curious about your options, our eye doctors are here to help you make a confident, informed decision.
Benefits of Choosing an Implantable Collamer Lens
For many patients across Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and beyond, the implantable collamer lens (ICL) offers a unique combination of performance, safety, and flexibility. Whether you’ve struggled with thick glasses, dry eyes from contacts, or disqualifications for LASIK, ICL may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Here are some of the top benefits Miramar Eye Specialists patients enjoy after ICL surgery:
Benefit 1: Sharp, High-Definition Vision
ICL lenses are custom-fitted to your eye’s unique measurements, delivering crisp, clear vision — often better than what you experienced with glasses or contacts. In clinical trials, over 95% of ICL patients achieved 20/20 vision or better post-surgery (Clinical Ophthalmology, 2022).
Benefit 2: Preserves the Natural Cornea
Unlike LASIK, which permanently reshapes the cornea, ICL surgery leaves your corneal structure intact. This makes it a preferred option for patients with thin corneas or irregular topography, and helps maintain the long-term health of the eye.
Benefit 3: Built-In UV Protection
The Collamer material used in the lens blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, offering added protection against long-term sun damage — particularly valuable in sunny Ventura County.
Benefit 4: Reversible and Removable
One of the most appealing aspects of ICL surgery is its reversibility. If your vision changes in the future or cataracts develop later in life, the lens can be safely removed or replaced.
Patient Tip: “I liked knowing the lens could come out if I ever needed cataract surgery later on. That gave me peace of mind.” – ICL patient from Thousand Oaks
Benefit 5: Doesn’t Cause Dry Eye
Because the cornea and tear glands aren’t disrupted, ICLs don’t trigger or worsen dry eye symptoms — a common concern in LASIK recovery. That’s a major advantage for patients in dry, windy areas like Simi Valley and Camarillo.
Benefit 6: Fast Recovery with Minimal Downtime
Most patients return to work and normal activities within 24–48 hours. Vision improves rapidly, and the procedure is performed in-office under local anesthesia — often in less than 30 minutes.
H4: Quick Recap: Top 6 Reasons to Choose ICL
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
| High-definition vision | Often 20/20 or better post-surgery |
| Preserves corneal integrity | No reshaping or cutting of cornea |
| UV protection built in | Shields retina from sun damage |
| Reversible procedure | Future-friendly and low-risk |
| Dry-eye friendly | No interference with tear film |
| Rapid results and recovery | Back to life within a day or two |
What to Expect from ICL Surgery with Miramar Eye Specialists
Choosing a vision correction procedure is a big decision — and understanding what to expect every step of the way can help you feel more confident and prepared. At Miramar Eye Specialists, we make the ICL journey smooth, personalized, and stress-free, with expert care available across eight Ventura County locations, including Ventura, Oxnard, and Thousand Oaks.
Here’s what the ICL process looks like from start to finish:
Step 1: Personalized Consultation & Eye Exam
Your journey begins with a comprehensive eye exam at one of our convenient clinics in Camarillo, Simi Valley, or beyond. During this visit, we:
- Measure your eye shape, pupil size, and corneal thickness
- Evaluate your prescription and vision stability
- Screen for any underlying eye conditions
- Discuss your goals and answer all your questions
If you’re a candidate, we’ll walk you through the next steps, including custom lens sizing and surgical planning.
Step 2: Pre-Op Preparation
A few days before surgery, you may be given prescription eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. In some cases, we may perform a YAG laser iridotomy, a quick, painless procedure to prepare your eye for proper fluid flow after ICL placement. (Some newer ICL models like the EVO ICL eliminate the need for this.)
Step 3: The ICL Procedure
- Where it happens: Performed in-office at our surgical suite in Ventura or Oxnard
- Duration: Around 15–30 minutes per eye
- Anesthesia: Numbing eye drops; you’ll be awake but relaxed
- No stitches required: The lens is inserted through a tiny incision that heals naturally
After the lens is gently placed behind your iris, we ensure perfect positioning before you’re released to go home the same day.
Step 4: Quick Recovery & Follow-Up
Most patients notice significantly sharper vision within 24 hours. You may experience some mild sensitivity or light halos initially — both temporary and expected.
Your follow-up visits will take place at your nearest Miramar Eye Specialists location, where we’ll monitor your healing and ensure everything looks great.
Local Tip: We Offer ICL at Multiple Locations
We serve patients across Ventura County from the following convenient offices:
- Ventura
- Oxnard
- Camarillo
- Thousand Oaks
- Simi Valley
- Ojai
- Port Hueneme
- Santa Paula
No matter where you live in the region, expert care is just a short drive away.
Are There Risks or Side Effects?
While the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure is considered very safe and has an impressive track record of success, like all surgical procedures, it does carry some risks. At Miramar Eye Specialists, our Ventura County surgeons take every precaution to ensure the safest experience possible — from your first consultation to your final follow-up.
Here’s what you need to know.
Common Side Effects (Usually Temporary)
After ICL surgery, you may experience:
- Mild discomfort or dry sensation for a day or two
- Light sensitivity or glare, especially at night
- Halos or starbursts around lights (usually fade within weeks)
- Blurry vision during the first 24–48 hours
These symptoms are typically short-lived and part of the natural healing process. Our team in Camarillo, Ventura, and Simi Valley provides post-op guidance and support at every step.
Less Common Risks
While rare, there are a few potential complications associated with ICL surgery:
| Risk | What It Means | How We Address It |
| Elevated eye pressure | Can occur if fluid flow is restricted | Prevented with proper pre-op procedures |
| Cataract formation | The natural lens may cloud over time | Regular monitoring at follow-up appointments |
| Lens rotation or dislocation | The ICL could shift position slightly | Extremely rare with skilled placement |
| Infection or inflammation | Possible with any intraocular procedure | Minimized through sterile technique + drops |
The good news? According to recent clinical studies, the complication rate for ICL is less than 1% when performed by experienced ophthalmologists according to PubMed.
Why Choosing a Qualified Surgeon Matters
The experience of your eye surgeon plays a huge role in minimizing risks and ensuring a successful outcome. That’s why patients throughout Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, and the wider Ventura County region trust our fellowship-trained ophthalmologists at Miramar Eye Specialists — known for their precision, patient care, and results-driven approach.
Real Patient Voice:
“I had concerns about side effects, but the team at Miramar walked me through every step. I felt informed and confident — and my vision is now 20/15!”
– ICL Patient from Oxnard
ICL vs. LASIK vs. PRK: What’s the Difference?
If you’re considering vision correction surgery in Ventura County, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. At Miramar Eye Specialists, we help patients across Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, and Camarillo understand the pros and cons of each procedure — so they can make the best choice for their eyes, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals.
Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the three most popular refractive surgeries:
Vision Correction Comparison Chart
| Feature | ICL | LASIK | PRK |
| Best for | Moderate to severe nearsightedness | Mild to moderate nearsightedness | Mild to moderate refractive errors |
| Cornea Thickness Needed | Works well with thin corneas | Requires sufficient corneal thickness | Can work with thinner corneas |
| Dry Eye Risk | Low | Moderate to high | Moderate |
| Permanence | Long-term, but removable | Permanent | Permanent |
| UV Protection | Yes (built into lens) | No | No |
| Recovery Time | 1–2 days | 2–5 days | 1–2 weeks |
| Pain Level | Minimal discomfort | Mild irritation | Moderate pain during healing |
| Procedure Time | ~30 minutes per eye | ~15 minutes per eye | ~15 minutes per eye |
Why More Patients Are Choosing ICL in Ventura County
Many of our patients at Miramar Eye Specialists choose ICL because:
- They’ve been told they’re not good LASIK candidates
- They want a reversible solution
- They have high prescriptions or dry eyes
By offering all three procedures, we make sure your care is personalized — never one-size-fits-all.
Not sure which procedure is right for you? Our experienced Ventura County ophthalmologists will walk you through your options during your consultation.
Real Results: ICL Patient Success Stories from Ventura County
One of the most rewarding parts of offering Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery at Miramar Eye Specialists is seeing the life-changing difference it makes for our patients. From driving at night without glare to ditching thick glasses for good, ICL has helped hundreds across Ventura County enjoy the freedom of clear, crisp vision — often for the first time in decades.
Here are a few real examples from patients right here in our community:
Sarah from Camarillo: “It’s like I was given new eyes.”
At 28, Sarah had worn glasses since the third grade and was told she wasn’t a LASIK candidate due to thin corneas. After her ICL procedure at our Camarillo office, she shared:
“I walked out of surgery and could already see the mountains more clearly. It’s like I was given new eyes. The entire team was so comforting — I wish I had done this sooner.”
James from Oxnard: “No more halos, no more headaches.”
James, a 35-year-old software engineer, struggled with intense glare from streetlights and screen fatigue. After ICL surgery at our Oxnard location, he reported:
“Driving at night used to be awful. Now, I don’t see halos and my eyes feel less tired at work. Miramar made the whole process smooth and stress-free.”
Linda from Ventura: “I got 20/15 vision — better than perfect!”
Linda came to us with a -10.00 prescription and was tired of losing contact lenses during outdoor hikes. After her procedure at our Ventura clinic, she said:
“I didn’t even know 20/15 vision was possible. I’ve never seen this clearly, even with glasses. The staff at Miramar really took the time to make sure I was comfortable every step of the way.”
Real People. Real Results. Local Care.
These stories are just a small sample of the incredible outcomes we see every week at Miramar Eye Specialists. Whether you’re in Simi Valley, Ojai, or Thousand Oaks, our experienced surgeons are here to help you achieve the vision you deserve — with advanced technology, personalized care, and a community-based approach.
Cost of an Implantable Collamer Lens in California
One of the most common questions we hear at Miramar Eye Specialists is: “How much does ICL surgery cost?”
While pricing can vary based on your prescription, eye health, and lens type, most patients in California can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 per eye for an Implantable Collamer Lens procedure.
What Affects the Cost of ICL Surgery?
| Cost Factor | What It Covers |
| Lens type | EVO ICL (no iridotomy needed) may cost more than older models |
| Surgeon’s experience | Board-certified specialists with strong outcomes may charge more |
| Pre- and post-op care | Includes consultation, follow-up visits, and medications |
| Surgical facility fees | In-office procedures may lower costs compared to hospital-based |
| Prescription complexity | Higher levels of myopia or astigmatism may require custom lenses |
At Miramar Eye Specialists, your ICL fee includes:
- Initial consultation and diagnostic testing
- Custom lens ordering and measurement
- Pre-operative care and surgical planning
- The ICL procedure itself (performed by a fellowship-trained surgeon)
- All post-operative visits and checkups
We believe in transparent, upfront pricing — no surprise fees or hidden charges.
Insurance and Financing Options
Most insurance providers classify ICL surgery as an elective procedure, which means it’s typically not covered. However, we work with you to make the procedure accessible through:
- Flexible monthly payment plans
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
- CareCredit and other third-party financing options
- Special pricing bundles available at our Ventura and Thousand Oaks clinics
Patient Tip: Many of our patients in Oxnard, Camarillo, and Simi Valley find that financing ICL costs less over time than years of contact lenses and glasses.
Final Thoughts: Schedule a Consultation at One of Our 8 Ventura County Locations
If you’ve been dreaming of clear, dependable vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts, the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) might be the life-changing solution you’ve been searching for. With thousands of successful procedures performed and eight convenient offices across Ventura County, Miramar Eye Specialists is proud to be your trusted local provider for advanced vision correction.
Whether you’re in Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Ojai, Santa Paula, or Port Hueneme, our experienced team of ophthalmologists and optometrists is here to guide you — every step of the way.
Why Choose Miramar Eye Specialists for ICL Surgery?
- Board-certified eye surgeons with decades of experience
- Personalized consultations and advanced diagnostic technology
- Local care from one of Southern California’s most established eye care networks
- Friendly, pressure-free environment focused on patient education
Ready to Find Out If ICL Is Right for You?
Don’t wait to see clearly — schedule your ICL consultation today.
Book your appointment online or call your nearest Miramar Eye Specialists location to get started. One of our vision correction experts will perform a detailed eye exam, answer all your questions, and help you determine the best solution for your unique eyes.
See clearly. Live freely. Trust your vision to the experts at Miramar Eye Specialists.
