Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) in Vietnam

In recent years, Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery has emerged as one of the most advanced and reliable vision correction options for people with high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism who may not be suitable candidates for laser procedures such as LASIK.

Vietnam is becoming a rising hub for ophthalmology and vision correction surgery, offering world-class eye care at significantly lower costs than Western countries. With modern equipment, internationally trained ophthalmologists, and comprehensive patient support services, ICL surgery in Vietnam is increasingly attracting both local and international patients seeking safe and effective solutions to vision problems.

🩺 2. What Is Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)?

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a biocompatible lens made from a collagen-based material called Collamer. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea using a laser, ICL involves implanting a thin, flexible lens inside the eye — between the iris and the natural lens.

ICL works like a permanent contact lens inside the eye, correcting refractive errors and providing crystal-clear vision. However, unlike LASIK, it does not remove any corneal tissue and can be reversed or removed if needed.

Common vision problems corrected by ICL:

• Myopia (nearsightedness) – up to -20.00 diopters

• Hyperopia (farsightedness) – up to +10.00 diopters

• Astigmatism – up to 6.00 diopters

⚡ Fun fact: The ICL procedure has been performed for over two decades and is FDA-approved in the United States.

🧑‍⚕️ 3. Who Is a Good Candidate for ICL Surgery?

ICL is ideal for patients who:

• Have moderate to high myopia or hyperopia.

• Have thin or irregular corneas, making them ineligible for LASIK.

• Prefer a reversible procedure with long-term stability.

• Are between 21 and 45 years old with stable prescription for at least 1 year.

• Are in good general and ocular health.

ICL is often recommended for people who work in high-performance jobs (pilots, athletes, military personnel) or those seeking excellent quality of vision without compromising corneal structure.

👓 4. ICL vs. LASIK: What’s the Difference?

✅ Many patients who are not suitable for LASIK can achieve excellent results with ICL surgery.

🏥 5. How ICL Surgery Works

The ICL procedure is minimally invasive, typically taking about 15–20 minutes per eye, and is usually performed under local anesthesia.

Step-by-step ICL procedure:

1. Pre-operative consultation: Eye measurements, corneal topography, and eye pressure checks.

2. Anesthesia: Numbing eye drops are applied — no general anesthesia is required.

3. Small incision: A tiny opening is made on the cornea.

4. Lens insertion: The ICL lens is folded and inserted through the incision, then unfolds in place behind the iris.

5. Positioning: The surgeon adjusts the lens to fit perfectly.

6. Recovery: Most patients go home the same day.

👁️ Vision often improves immediately or within 24 hours after surgery.

💰 6. ICL Surgery Cost in Vietnam

One of the major reasons patients choose Vietnam for ICL surgery is affordability. The cost of ICL surgery in Vietnam is 50–70% lower than in countries such as the U.S., Australia, or the U.K.

💡 Some hospitals offer all-inclusive medical tourism packages with accommodation and transportation.

🏥 7. Top Hospitals for ICL Surgery in Vietnam

Vietnam has several internationally recognized hospitals and eye centers equipped with the latest refractive surgery technologies.

🏥 7.1 FV Hospital – Ho Chi Minh City

• International JCI-accredited hospital.

• Advanced ICL technology and experienced surgeons.

• Multilingual support for international patients.

🏥 7.2 Tam Anh Hospital – Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City

• Renowned for eye microsurgery and personalized vision correction plans.

• Modern surgical facilities and comprehensive aftercare.

🏥 7.3 Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital

• One of the largest public eye hospitals in Vietnam.

• Affordable pricing and high surgery volume.

🏥 7.4 Vinmec International Hospital

• Nationwide private hospital network.

• State-of-the-art diagnostic tools and patient services.

✈️ 8. Why International Patients Choose Vietnam

ICL surgery in Vietnam is popular not just because of the cost, but because of the overall patient experience:

• ✅ World-class medical facilities with advanced technology.

• 👨‍⚕️ Highly skilled ophthalmologists trained internationally.

• 🌏 English-speaking staff and medical tourism support.

• 🏨 Short wait times and comfortable recovery.

• 💵 Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.

Vietnam is also a beautiful travel destination, allowing patients to combine medical treatment with a relaxing holiday.

Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery performed in a modern eye hospital in Vietnam.

🧭 9. Typical Treatment Journey for ICL Patients

1. Inquiry: Send your prescription and medical history for a preliminary assessment.

2. Consultation: Virtual or in-person consultation with the surgeon.

3. Travel & Arrival: Visa assistance, airport pickup, and check-in.

4. Pre-op Tests: Detailed eye examination and lens measurement.

5. Surgery Day: ICL implantation in one or both eyes.

6. Follow-up: Post-op check-up within 24–48 hours.

7. Return Home: Most patients can fly back within 5–7 days.

🕒 10. Recovery After ICL Surgery

Recovery time is short and comfortable for most patients.

• 🕐 Return to normal activities: 1–2 days

• 💡 Full visual recovery: within 1 week

• 💧 Eye drops and medications help prevent infection and inflammation.

• 🕶️ Sunglasses recommended during the first few days.

Post-operative care tips:

• Do not rub your eyes.

• Avoid swimming or heavy exercise for 1–2 weeks.

• Use prescribed eye drops exactly as directed.

• Attend all follow-up appointments.

📌 ICL lenses are designed to last for decades and do not require maintenance.

🌍 11. Travel & Visa Information

Traveling to Vietnam for eye surgery is simple:

• ✈️ Visa: Most patients can apply for an easy e-Visa valid for 90 days.

• 🏨 Accommodation: Wide range of hotels near hospitals.

• 🚖 Transport: Airport pickup, hospital transfers, and interpreter services are available.

• 🌏 Tourism: Many patients enjoy a short vacation in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, or Nha Trang.

🧑‍⚕️ 12. FAQs About ICL Surgery

Q1. Is ICL surgery painful?
✅ No. The procedure uses numbing eye drops, so patients feel little to no pain.

Q2. How long does the lens last?
👁️ ICL lenses are designed to be permanent but can be removed or replaced if needed.

Q3. How soon can I see after surgery?
Most patients see clearly within 24 hours, with continued improvement over a few days.

Q4. Is ICL safer than LASIK?
Both procedures are safe. ICL may be safer for patients with thin corneas or high myopia since no tissue is removed.

Q5. Can I travel alone for surgery?
Yes, but having a companion or using hospital support services is recommended, especially after surgery.

📞 13. Take the First Step Toward Clearer Vision

If you are tired of glasses or contact lenses and not suitable for LASIK, ICL surgery in Vietnam offers a world-class solution at a fraction of the cost. With advanced medical technology, skilled surgeons, and full international patient support, Vietnam is becoming a top destination for vision correction surgery in Asia.

📝 Conclusion

ICL surgery is a safe, reversible, and highly effective solution for people who want excellent vision without laser corneal reshaping. Vietnam offers the perfect combination of quality, affordability, and patient-centered care, making it one of the best destinations in Asia for eye surgery.

If you’re considering ICL, now may be the perfect time to take the first step toward a glasses-free life.