Understanding LASIK, ICL, and IOL Surgeries: Your Top FAQs Answered
- dinesh madduri
- Apr 18
- 3 min read
1. LASIK Surgery
Q1: What is LASIK?
A: LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a laser eye surgery that reshapes your cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses.

Q2: Am I eligible for LASIK?
A: You may qualify if:
- You’re over 18 with stable vision for 1+ years.
- Your prescription is within treatable limits (typically up to -4.0 for myopia).
- You should not have severe dry eye or corneal thinning.
Q3: Is LASIK painful?
A: No! Numbing drops are used, and the procedure takes 15 minutes. You may feel slight pressure, but no pain.
Q4: How long is recovery after LASIK?
A: Most patients see clearly within 24 hours. Avoid swimming/rubbing eyes for 2 weeks.
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2. ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
Q6: How is ICL different from LASIK?
A: ICL involves placing a biocompatible lens inside your eye (without altering the cornea). Ideal for high prescriptions (-4.0 to -12.0) or thin corneas.
Q7: Is ICL reversible?
A: Yes! The lens can be removed or replaced if needed.
Q8: Can ICL correct astigmatism?
A: Yes, with a Toric ICL variant.
Q9: What’s the recovery time for ICL?
A: 1-2 days for most activities. Full stabilization takes 1-2 weeks.
Q10: Does ICL increase cataract risk?
A: Rarely. Modern ICLs are designed to maintain natural eye fluid flow, minimizing risks.
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3. IOL (Intraocular Lens for Cataract Surgery)
Q11: How is IOL different from ICL & LASIK?
A: High powered (-12.0 to -30.0) lens or cloudy natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Advanced IOLs can also correct glasses prescriptions.
Q12: Can IOLs eliminate glasses?
A: Yes! Premium IOLs like trifocal or trifocal toric lenses can correct High myopia (-12.0 to -30.0) Hypermetropia, presbyopia, astigmatism, and cataracts in one procedure.
Q13: How long does IOL surgery take?
A: About 10-15 minutes per eye. Done sequentially, weeks apart.
Q14: Is IOL surgery only for seniors?
A: No! While cataracts are age-related, IOLs can also treat younger patients with lens-related issues like high powered thick lenses (high myopia).
General Questions
Q16: Which surgery is safest?
A: All three are FDA-approved and safe when performed by an expert. Your eligibility depends on eye health, prescription, and lifestyle.
Q17: Can I have surgery if I have glaucoma?
A: Yes, but your eye pressure must be controlled. Dr. Dinesh will tailor the approach to your condition.
Q18: What are the risks?
A: Rare complications include dry eyes (LASIK), infection (ICL/IOL), or glare. Over 99% of patients achieve successful results.
Q19: How much do these surgeries cost?
A: Costs vary:
- LASIK: ₹35,000 – ₹50,000 per eye.
- ICL: ₹50,000 – ₹1,20,000 per eye.
- IOL (Premium): ₹50,000 – ₹1,20,000 per eye.
Q20: How do I choose the best option?
A: Book a detailed eye exam! Dr. Dinesh will analyze corneal thickness, prescription, and lifestyle to recommend the ideal surgery.
Factor | LASIK | ICL | IOL (Premium) |
Best For | -2.0 to -4.0 | -4.0 to -12.0 | -12.0 to -30.0 |
Recovery Time | 1-2 days | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
Cost (per eye) | ₹35k–₹50k | ₹50k–₹1.2L | ₹50k–₹1.2L |
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Still Have Questions?
Book a FREE Consultation with Dr. Dinesh M to discuss your unique needs!
📞 9054994220 | 🌐 www.maaeyecare.com
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