5 Things We Confirm Before ICL Eye Surgery in Seoul, Korea

Before recommending ICL eye surgery, we evaluate five key factors: space inside the eye — depth, width, and angle; corneal endothelial cell density; prescription stability; pupil size; and eye health.

At EYEREUM Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, a comprehensive pre-operative eye examination helps us determine whether ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery is appropriate for each patient and select a lens based on individual eye anatomy and visual needs.

1. Space Inside the Eye for the ICL Lens

An ICL is positioned behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. We measure the dimensions of this space, including its depth and the anatomy of the iridocorneal angle, to help determine the appropriate lens size and predict how the lens will fit inside the eye.

2. Corneal Endothelial Cell Density

Corneal endothelial cells have limited regenerative capacity, making their assessment an important part of pre-operative screening and long-term follow-up for ICL surgery.

We measure corneal endothelial cell density before surgery and continue to monitor it afterward.

We have also conducted research based on 10-year clinical outcomes in patients who underwent V4c ICL implantation.

According to the study findings, more than 97% of eyes maintained visual acuity of 20/20 or better after surgery, and no cases of surgery-related cataract formation or other complications were reported during the follow-up period.

3. Stable Vision Prescription

We check your current degree of myopia and astigmatism and review whether your prescription has remained stable.

If your prescription is still changing, we may recommend waiting before considering ICL surgery. Understanding your refractive status helps us assess your suitability for the procedure and plan treatment accordingly.

4. Pupil Size and Night Vision

We measure pupil size and consider how it may affect visual quality in low-light conditions.

Pupil size is one of several factors that may influence night vision after ICL surgery. These findings help us evaluate individual visual needs and discuss potential concerns, including glare or halos in dim lighting.

5. Signs of Inflammation or Early Cataract

We examine the eye under a microscope to look for signs of inflammation, early cataract, or other conditions that may affect surgical suitability.

If we identify findings that require further evaluation or treatment, we will discuss the next steps before proceeding with surgery.

Why Does Long-Term ICL Monitoring Matter?

An ICL can remain inside the eye for many years, so pre-operative measurements and ongoing follow-up both matter.

In our published 10-year follow-up study of 103 eyes, no cases of cataract, angle-closure glaucoma, or ICL removal were reported during the study period. The eyes requiring closer monitoring had lower endothelial cell counts before surgery, underscoring the importance of establishing a baseline before implantation.

These findings reflect the outcomes of the studied patients and do not guarantee the same results for every individual.

Who May Not Be Suitable for ICL Eye Surgery?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for ICL.

Anterior chamber anatomy, endothelial cell density, prescription stability, pupil size, cataract, inflammation, and other eye conditions may affect whether the procedure is appropriate.

If the examination shows that ICL is not recommended, our ophthalmologists will explain the findings and discuss other vision correction options when appropriate.

For patients considering ICL eye surgery in Korea, a detailed pre-operative examination is an important first step in determining whether the procedure is suitable for their eyes.

Planning ICL surgery during a trip to Seoul? Contact EYEREUM Eye Clinic to discuss your prescription and travel schedule before arranging your visit.

📍 EYEREUM Eye Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea

Medical reviewer: Dr. Byunghoon Chung, MD

Ophthalmologist, EYEREUM Eye Clinic

Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea

PINNED COMMENT — REFERENCES

– [1] Chung B, Choi JY, Kang DSY, et al. Ten-year clinical outcomes of V4c ICL implantation: visual acuity, endothelial cell density, and vault dynamics. Am J Ophthalmol. 2025;269:1-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajo.2024.08.007

– [2] Lee H, Kang DSY, Choi JY, et al. Pre-operative factors affecting range of optimal vaulting after 12.6-mm V4c ICL implantation. BMC Ophthalmol. 2018;18:163. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12886-018-0835-x

– [3] Lee H, Kang DSY, Ha BJ, et al. Effect of accommodation on vaulting and movement of posterior chamber phakic lenses (ICL). Am J Ophthalmol. 2015;160(4):710-716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajo.2015.07.014

– [4] Chuck RS, et al. Refractive Errors & Refractive Surgery Preferred Practice Pattern. Ophthalmology. 2018;125(1):P1-P104. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.10.003

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