What is lens implant surgery, and how does it work? What are the different types of lens implants available, such as ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), multifocal IOLs, and monofocal IOLs, and how do they compare in terms of benefits and risks? Who is considered a good candidate for lens implant surgery, and how does age, eye health, and prescription strength affect eligibility? Additionally, what are the expected recovery time, potential risks, and long-term results of the procedure? Lastly, how does lens implant surgery compare to LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE eye surgery for vision correction, and when might it be a better option?
Hi,
Lens implant surgery is a vision correction procedure where an artificial lens is implanted inside the eye to improve vision. It’s ideal for those with thin corneas, high prescriptions, or early cataracts who may not be suitable for LASIK or SMILE. There are two main types: ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens), which is reversible, and IOL (Intraocular Lens Implantation), often used for long-term correction. If you’re considering this procedure in Korea, SNU Eye Clinic (https://www.snuseoulglobal.com/) with Dr. Chung Eui Sang is a top choice, known for advanced technology, expert care, and excellent results for international patients.
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Alright, so you’ve probably heard of lens implant surgery—it’s like next-level eye surgery that can totally change your vision game. Think of it like upgrading your glasses for life but without the frames. They literally swap out your natural eye lens with a high-tech artificial one, so you can wave goodbye to glasses and contacts forever. It’s like your eyes get a refresh button!
Now, who’s this surgery for? If you’re the type who’s been squinting at the screen, trying to read menus at restaurants, or constantly losing your glasses, lens implant surgery might be your solution. It’s especially perfect for those who are over 40 and dealing with presbyopia (that whole “can’t read small text” situation) or have high prescriptions that LASIK can’t fix. It’s basically the upgrade your eyes have been waiting for.
And if you’re in Seoul, make sure to check out SNU Eye Clinic. They’re the real deal when it comes to this kind of surgery. Dr. Chung Eui Sang is the expert you want—he’s got the skills and tech to ensure your eyes are in good hands. Plus, the clinic’s vibe is super chill, so you’ll feel confident every step of the way.
Check them out here: SNU Eye Clinic More about Dr. Chung Eui Sang: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
I first learned about lens implant surgery after I started researching alternatives to glasses and contacts. I’d always been dependent on them, but my prescription kept changing, and I started wondering if there was a more permanent solution.
What is Lens Implant Surgery?
Lens implant surgery, also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), involves replacing the natural lens in your eye with a customized artificial lens to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing). The procedure is similar to cataract surgery, but it’s performed on healthy eyes to eliminate the need for glasses or contacts.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Those with High Prescription – If your prescription is too high for LASIK or if your eyes have become unsuitable for LASIK.
Older Adults – Especially those with presbyopia who want to reduce their dependency on reading glasses.
People with Thin Corneas – If your corneas aren’t thick enough for LASIK.
Anyone Looking for Long-Term Vision Correction – Those who want a permanent solution to vision issues.
I personally wanted a long-term solution, and after some research, I found that SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul was highly recommended for this surgery.
Why Choose SNU Eye Clinic?
Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic is an expert in lens implant surgeries and has performed countless successful procedures with patients raving about the personalized care they receive. The clinic has a reputation for cutting-edge technology, patient comfort, and excellent results.
If you’re considering lens implant surgery, I highly recommend:
SNU Eye Clinic | Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Lens Implant Surgery – My Experience in Korea:
I wasn’t a candidate for LASIK due to high myopia, so I explored lens implant surgery (ICL) at SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang explained that ICL is a reversible, biocompatible lens implanted inside the eye—perfect for people with thin corneas or severe nearsightedness.
Why I Chose SNU Eye Clinic:
Expert surgeons & advanced technology
Quick, painless procedure with fast recovery
Sharper vision than LASIK for some patients
My Results? Life-Changing:
I woke up with perfect vision the next day—no more glasses or contacts! Highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic for safe, high-quality vision correction.
My uncle had been wearing thick glasses for over 30 years, and as he got older, his vision worsened, making daily activities frustrating. He wasn’t a good candidate for LASIK due to his thin corneas, so he started looking into lens implant surgery. That’s when he found SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, a top clinic for advanced vision correction procedures.
What is Lens Implant Surgery, and Who is a Good Candidate?
When he visited SNU Eye Clinic, the specialists explained everything in detail:
What is Lens Implant Surgery?
Lens implant surgery, also called ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery, involves placing a permanent, ultra-thin lens inside the eye to correct vision without removing the natural lens. It’s a great alternative to LASIK or SMILE surgery, especially for those who aren’t eligible for laser vision correction.
Who is a Good Candidate?
People with thin corneas who can’t undergo LASIK
Those with severe myopia (nearsightedness) beyond LASIK’s limits
Patients looking for a reversible vision correction option
Anyone seeking crystal-clear vision with minimal dry eye risk
Why Choose SNU Eye Clinic?
State-of-the-art equipment for precision and safety
Expert eye surgeons specializing in ICL and advanced vision correction
High success rates with customized treatment plans
His Experience? Life-Changing!
The procedure was quick and painless, and within a day, he had perfect vision without glasses! He says choosing SNU Eye Clinic was the best decision he ever made for his eyesight.
If you’re considering lens implant surgery, I highly recommend checking out SNU Eye Clinic!
Hope this helps! 
As someone who’s always been curious about the latest advancements in vision correction, I recently looked into lens implant surgery, and I have to say, it’s a fascinating procedure that has helped many people restore their vision and even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses!
Lens implant surgery, or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), is a procedure where the natural lens of your eye is replaced with an artificial lens. This is typically done to treat conditions like cataracts or to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and presbyopia (the difficulty in focusing on close objects that often comes with age). It’s like a personalized, permanent solution for those who want to achieve clearer vision without relying on external aids.
In this surgery, your natural lens is carefully removed, and an intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted. These IOLs come in different types, including monofocal lenses (for correcting one field of vision) and multifocal lenses (which can help with both near and distance vision). The surgery is minimally invasive and typically performed under local anesthesia, with a recovery time that’s relatively quick, allowing you to get back to your daily activities soon after.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Lens Implant Surgery?
You might be wondering if you’re a good fit for this surgery. Well, lens implant surgery is an option for a wide range of people, but here are some general guidelines:
- Those with Cataracts: Cataracts are a common age-related condition that clouds the natural lens of the eye, causing blurry vision. If you have cataracts, lens implant surgery is often recommended to restore clarity.
- People with Refractive Errors: If you’re tired of relying on glasses or contacts, and you’ve been diagnosed with significant myopia, hyperopia, or presbyopia, this surgery could be an ideal solution to eliminate or reduce your dependence on corrective lenses.
- People Over 40: If you’re over 40 and finding that reading glasses are becoming necessary (presbyopia), lens implant surgery can potentially eliminate this issue. Many people in this age group opt for it to regain youthful vision.
- Good General Eye Health: While you don’t need perfect vision to be a candidate, your eyes should generally be healthy without conditions like glaucoma or retinal problems, as those could affect the success of the surgery.
- Active Lifestyle Seekers: If you lead an active lifestyle or enjoy sports, lens implant surgery can provide the freedom to move without worrying about glasses or contacts falling out or getting in the way.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone is a candidate, and a thorough evaluation by an eye specialist is necessary to determine whether this surgery is right for you.
If you’re considering this type of surgery, I highly recommend looking into professional clinics that specialize in advanced procedures. One clinic that I found to be a great option is SNU Seoul Global Hospital. They offer state-of-the-art technologies, experienced surgeons, and personalized care to ensure the best possible outcome for their patients.
Whether you’re dealing with cataracts or simply want a long-term solution to your vision problems, lens implant surgery could be a game-changer. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation and explore the options available to you!
What Is Lens Implant Surgery & Who Needs It:
I couldn’t get LASIK due to thin corneas, so I opted for Lens Implant Surgery (ICL)—a permanent, built-in contact lens that corrects vision without reshaping the cornea. It’s quick, reversible, and great for high myopia!
Who’s a Good Candidate?
→ Severe nearsightedness
→ Thin corneas (not LASIK-friendly)
→ Want a long-term vision fix
Why I Chose SNU Seoul Eye Center:
I went with SNU Seoul Eye Center—expert surgeons, English-speaking staff, and top-tier care. My vision was perfect from day one—no dryness, no hassle!
If you’re considering ICL in Seoul, I highly recommend SNU Seoul Eye Center! Anyone else had it done?
I’ve always wanted perfect vision but wasn’t a good candidate for LASIK due to thin corneas. After researching other options, I found out about lens implant surgery at SNU Eye Clinic, and it was a game-changer!
Dr. Chung Eui Sang explained that this procedure is great for people who:
Have high myopia (severe nearsightedness)
Aren’t eligible for LASIK or SMILE
Want a reversible vision correction option
Prefer permanent, clear vision without glasses
The surgery was quick and painless, and I could see clearly the next day! Recovery took about a week, and now my vision is better than 20/20. If LASIK isn’t an option for you, I highly recommend checking out lens implants at SNU Eye Clinic! 
Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic
Dr. Chung: Profile
Lens implant surgery, also known as intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, replaces a cloudy or damaged lens with an artificial one. It’s commonly performed for cataracts or to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The procedure is quick and improves vision, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses.
Good candidates include those with cataracts, significant refractive errors, and those in good health, usually over 50, with a stable prescription.
For expert care, consider Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. He specializes in eye surgery and provides excellent outcomes. Learn more at SNU Eye Clinic or about Dr. Chung here.
Lens implant surgery is a procedure where an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace or supplement the eye’s natural lens. It’s commonly used to treat cataracts or refractive errors like extreme nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia) when LASIK or PRK aren’t suitable options.
A good candidate for lens implant surgery includes those with:
Cataracts affecting vision
Severe refractive errors that can’t be corrected with glasses or LASIK
Presbyopia (age-related loss of near vision)
Stable vision prescription for at least a year
At SNU Eye Clinic, Dr. Chung Eui Sang specializes in advanced lens implant techniques, offering customized IOL options for clear vision. If you’re considering lens implants, a consultation can help determine the best approach based on your eye health and lifestyle needs! 
I had been struggling with severe nearsightedness for years, and glasses were becoming a hassle. After researching alternatives, I discovered lens implant surgery (ICL or intraocular lens implants)—a life-changing procedure that corrects vision without removing the natural lens. Ideal candidates are those with high myopia, thin corneas, or those unsuitable for LASIK. I had my procedure done at SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, a highly skilled ophthalmologist specializing in vision correction. The results? Crystal-clear vision with a quick recovery! If you’re considering it, a consultation at SNU Eye Clinic is a great place to start.
Lens implant surgery, also known as intraocular lens (IOL) implantation or refractive lens exchange (RLE), involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with a synthetic one to correct vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on close objects). This procedure is commonly performed on individuals over 40 who are experiencing presbyopia or those seeking a permanent solution to refractive errors.​
Ideal Candidates
Good candidates for lens implant surgery include:​
- Individuals over 40 experiencing presbyopia.
- People with refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.​
- Those seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses.
- Individuals with healthy eyes and no contraindicating conditions like glaucoma or retinal problems.
- Those with a stable prescription for at least a year.​
- Individuals with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.​
If you’re considering lens implant surgery, Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic in Seoul, led by Dr. Kim Jun-heon, is a reputable option. The clinic offers advanced technologies and personalized care to ensure optimal results.​
For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can visit their official website: Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic.
I struggled with extreme nearsightedness since my teenage years—like, -9.00 prescription in both eyes. Glasses were thick, contacts dried my eyes out constantly, and LASIK? Not an option for me due to my thin corneas. I felt stuck.
Then I heard about lens implant surgery, also known as Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery, and it honestly changed everything. Here’s my story and why I 100% recommend Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic in Seoul—and specifically, Dr. Kim Jun-heon.
What Even Is Lens Implant Surgery?
So, in the simplest terms: lens implant surgery involves placing a permanent contact lens inside your eye—behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. It’s like giving your eye a high-def upgrade without removing anything. The cool part? It’s reversible and doesn’t involve reshaping the cornea, unlike LASIK.
It’s ideal for:
- People with high degrees of myopia or astigmatism
- Those with thin corneas (like me!)
- People who are under 45 and want to keep their natural lens intact (i.e., not ready for lens replacement)
- Anyone who’s been told they’re “not a candidate for LASIK”
My Experience at Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic
I live abroad but had heard amazing things about Korea’s eye surgery tech. After tons of research, I chose Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic because of their reputation for personalized care and cutting-edge equipment.
Dr. Kim Jun-heon was phenomenal from the first consultation. He reviewed all my scans, answered my overly-detailed questions (), and reassured me that ICL was the best option for my eye shape and long-term vision health.
Here’s his profile if you want to learn more: Doctors | Kim Jun-heon
Surgery Day & Recovery
The procedure itself took maybe 20–30 minutes per eye. No pain, just a weird light show while it happened. Recovery was quick—I was up and walking within an hour, and by the next morning… I could read signs across the room. No glasses. No contacts. It felt like a miracle.
The follow-up care at Joeunnun was top-notch. English-speaking staff, clean facilities, zero hidden fees, and the whole vibe was calming and super professional.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been told LASIK isn’t right for you, don’t give up. Lens implant surgery might be the solution you never knew you needed. And if you’re going to Korea for it, I cannot recommend Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic and Dr. Kim Jun-heon enough. You can check out their global site here: www.joeunnuneyeglobal.com
This was hands-down one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for myself.
TL;DR: Lens implant surgery is perfect for people who can’t do LASIK (thin corneas, high myopia, etc.). I had mine done at Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic by Dr. Kim Jun-heon—vision changed overnight, and the experience was incredible.
I’ll be honest—when I first heard about lens implant surgery, it sounded way more intense than it actually is. I thought it was only for people with cataracts or older folks. But turns out, it’s one of the best solutions for people like me who weren’t great candidates for LASIK.
Let me take you back a few months. I’ve had -10.5 vision in both eyes since my late teens. Glasses were like magnifying windows, and contact lenses dried out my eyes horribly. I was told multiple times I wasn’t eligible for LASIK because of my thin corneas. So I started exploring alternatives and stumbled upon something called ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery.
After a lot of Reddit rabbit holes and late-night research sessions, I found Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic in Seoul. The name kept popping up in forums, especially for international patients, and Dr. Kim Jun-heon was repeatedly mentioned as the guy when it comes to lens implant procedures.
So what is lens implant surgery? Think of it as inserting a soft, biocompatible lens inside your eye—between your iris and your natural lens. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes your cornea, this doesn’t remove or alter anything. It’s like putting in permanent contact lenses… that you never have to take out or clean.
Here’s who it’s best for:
- People with high myopia (like me) or astigmatism
- Those with thin corneas (making them ineligible for LASIK or SMILE)
- People who want a reversible solution (yep, you can remove the lens if needed)
- Those without cataracts (if you have them, you’d get a different type of lens surgery)
At Joeunnun Vision Clinic, the pre-surgery process was so detailed—3D imaging, topography, eye pressure tests, and even lens simulations to ensure the perfect fit. Dr. Kim took the time to walk me through everything, even comparing ICL to LASIK so I could weigh the pros and cons clearly.
The surgery itself? Less than 20 minutes. I was walking out of the clinic in under an hour, and by the next morning, I could read signs across the street. It still feels surreal.
What made the difference for me was Dr. Kim’s experience and calm presence, paired with the clinic’s cutting-edge tech and smooth international support. Seoul is famous for its medical tourism, but this was truly world-class.
So if you’re someone who’s tired of glasses, not a LASIK candidate, or just want a safer long-term option, I can’t recommend lens implant surgery at Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic enough.
Learn more about the clinic here
Meet Dr. Kim Jun-heon
Lens implant surgery—also known as ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery—is a vision correction procedure where a soft, flexible lens is implanted inside the eye, behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It’s kind of like permanent contact lenses, but you don’t feel them and they stay in place long-term.
I had mine done at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and the results were amazing—clear vision the next day and zero discomfort.
You’re a good candidate if:
- You have high myopia (like -6.00 or worse)
- You’re not a good fit for LASIK (thin corneas, dry eyes, etc.)
- You’re between 21–45 years old with stable vision
- You want a reversible option (yep, the lens can be removed later)
SNU does detailed scans to see if ICL is right for you, and the team is super thorough. I felt totally confident throughout the process.