Is ICL Riskier Than LASIK? Comparing the Safety Profiles

If you’ve been thinking about ditching your glasses or contact lenses, chances are you’ve come across LASIK and ICL surgery. Both procedures promise sharper vision and greater convenience, but many people hesitate because of one key question: which one is safer?

It’s normal to wonder whether ICL is riskier than LASIK, especially since each treatment works differently. The truth is, both have excellent safety records when performed by experienced surgeons, but they also come with unique risks, side effects, and recovery considerations.

In this article, I’ll take a clear, balanced look at the safety profiles of LASIK and ICL, so you can better understand which procedure may suit your eyes.

A Quick Overview of LASIK

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most widely performed vision correction procedures worldwide. The surgery uses a precise laser to reshape the cornea, which alters how light enters your eye and focuses on the retina, improving overall vision.

  • Procedure time: Typically around 15 minutes per eye.
  • Recovery: Very quick for most patients, with normal activities usually possible within 24–48 hours. Mild dryness or scratchiness may occur for a few days but generally resolves with prescribed eye drops.
  • Best suited for: People with mild to moderate prescriptions who have healthy corneas and no chronic eye conditions.

LASIK is considered permanent because it removes corneal tissue during the procedure, meaning the changes to your vision cannot be reversed. With the right candidate, it can provide sharp, reliable vision with minimal downtime.

A Quick Overview of ICL Surgery

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery takes a different approach to vision correction. Instead of reshaping the cornea like LASIK, the surgeon inserts a tiny, custom-made lens inside your eye, positioned between your iris and your natural lens. This lens works with your natural eye structures to correct your vision.

  • Procedure time: Usually around 20–30 minutes per eye.
  • Recovery: Vision often improves within a day or two, with full comfort and clarity typically achieved within a few days to a week, depending on individual healing.
  • Best suited for: People with high prescriptions, thin corneas, or those who are not ideal candidates for LASIK due to eye health or other factors.

Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery is reversible. The implanted lens can be removed or replaced if your prescription changes in the future, or if you decide to pursue a different vision correction option. With proper care, ICL can provide excellent long-term visual quality and flexibility.

Comparing the Safety Profiles: LASIK vs ICL

When comparing safety, it’s important to look at the specific risks and side effects associated with each procedure.

  1. Corneal Health
  • LASIK: Because it removes corneal tissue, LASIK can weaken the cornea. This is why it isn’t suitable for people with thin or irregular corneas. In rare cases, it may lead to corneal ectasia (a bulging of the cornea).
  • ICL: ICL doesn’t touch the cornea, making it a safer option for people with thinner corneas.

If you’ve been told your corneas are too thin for LASIK, ICL is often the recommended alternative.

  1. Dry Eyes
  • LASIK: One of the most common side effects after LASIK is dry eyes, which happens because the procedure cuts corneal nerves. For most people, this improves within a few months, but for some, it can persist.
  • ICL: Because the cornea isn’t altered, ICL doesn’t typically cause dry eyes.

If you already suffer from dry eye syndrome, ICL may be a safer option.

  1. Risk of Infection
  • LASIK: The risk of infection is low, but because the procedure involves creating a corneal flap, there is potential for flap complications.
  • ICL: In rare cases, ICL can cause infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis), which can be more serious but is extremely uncommon when performed in sterile conditions.

Both procedures have very low infection rates when done by qualified surgeons.

  1. Vision Quality
  • LASIK: Provides excellent vision for many patients, but night vision issues such as glare and halos can occur, particularly with high prescriptions.
  • ICL: Many patients report sharper night vision compared to LASIK, since the natural shape of the cornea is preserved.

This makes ICL attractive if you drive often at night or work in low-light environments.

  1. Reversibility
  • LASIK: Permanent and irreversible. If your prescription changes, additional procedures may be needed, but corneal tissue cannot be restored.
  • ICL: Reversible. The lens can be removed or replaced, giving more flexibility if your eyes change over time.

From a safety perspective, reversibility is a big advantage of ICL.

  1. Long-Term Risks
  • LASIK: Long-term risks include ectasia, chronic dry eye, or regression (where vision slowly drifts back towards your original prescription).
  • ICL: Long-term risks include cataract development (since the lens sits close to your natural lens) or increased intraocular pressure if the lens isn’t sized properly.

Both procedures have excellent long-term safety profiles when patients are carefully selected.

Recovery Time and Comfort

  • LASIK recovery: Most people notice significantly clearer vision within 24 hours after the procedure. Mild discomfort, such as dryness, scratchiness, or a gritty sensation, can occur for a few days but generally improves quickly with prescribed eye drops and adequate rest. Many patients are able to return to normal activities, including work and screen use, within a day or two.
  • ICL recovery: Vision often starts to improve within a day or two. Some patients may notice mild halos, glare, or increased light sensitivity initially. Redness, mild discomfort, and eye sensitivity typically settle within about a week, although some subtle visual effects may linger for a short period.

For both procedures, carefully following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is crucial for safe and effective healing. This includes using prescribed eye drops, avoiding rubbing your eyes, protecting your eyes from dust or water, and attending all follow-up appointments to ensure your eyes are healing properly and your vision is stabilising.

Who Is More Suitable for LASIK?

You might be a good candidate for LASIK if:

  • Your prescription is mild to moderate, making laser correction likely to achieve excellent results.
  • You have healthy corneas with sufficient thickness to safely undergo the procedure.
  • You don’t suffer from chronic dry eyes, which can be worsened by LASIK.
  • You want a fast recovery and a long-lasting, permanent solution for clearer vision.

LASIK remains the most popular choice for eligible patients due to its proven safety record, convenience, and ability to deliver quick improvements in vision. With the right candidate, it can provide sharp, reliable vision and minimal downtime.

Who Is More Suitable for ICL?

You might be a better candidate for ICL if:

  • Your prescription is too high for LASIK, meaning laser correction may not fully achieve the vision results you want.
  • You have thin corneas or irregular corneal shapes, which can make LASIK or other laser procedures less safe or effective.
  • You already struggle with dry eyes and want a procedure that is less likely to worsen this condition over time.
  • You prefer a reversible solution that provides excellent visual quality and long-term clarity, giving you flexibility in your vision correction.

If you’re considering ICL surgery in London, it’s important to schedule a detailed consultation with an experienced eye surgeon. During this appointment, your eye health, prescription, and overall suitability will be carefully evaluated. This ensures that the procedure is safe for you and gives the best possible outcome for your vision.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

So, is ICL riskier than LASIK? Not necessarily. Each procedure comes with its own set of risks, but they are different in nature. LASIK carries a slightly higher risk of corneal complications, such as thinning or ectasia, and temporary or, in rare cases, persistent dry eyes. ICL, on the other hand, carries a small risk of internal eye issues, such as cataract formation or elevated intraocular pressure if the lens isn’t sized correctly.

The key takeaway is that both LASIK and ICL are highly safe when performed on suitable candidates by experienced surgeons. The best choice depends on your eye health, corneal thickness, prescription, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals. A thorough consultation with a qualified eye specialist can help weigh these risks and benefits, ensuring you select the procedure that offers the safest and most satisfying outcome for your individual eyes.

The Role of Surgeon Expertise

When it comes to LASIK or ICL, the surgeon’s experience and skill often matter more than the procedure itself. Even though both surgeries have excellent safety records, the outcomes depend heavily on careful preoperative assessment, precise measurements, and meticulous surgical technique.

A highly experienced surgeon will evaluate your eye health, corneal thickness, prescription, and any pre-existing conditions to determine which procedure carries the lowest risk for you. They will also anticipate potential complications and take steps to minimise them, ensuring the safest and most predictable results.

This is why choosing the right clinic and surgeon is just as important as choosing between LASIK and ICL. Look for a clinic with a strong track record, state-of-the-art equipment, and surgeons who perform these procedures regularly. A skilled professional not only improves the likelihood of excellent vision outcomes but also provides peace of mind throughout the process.

Myths About LASIK and ICL Safety

You may have come across misconceptions online. Let’s clear up a few common myths:

Myth: ICL is dangerous because it’s “inside the eye.”
Truth: ICLs are designed to sit safely in front of the natural lens without touching it. They have been used for decades, with excellent long-term safety records when implanted by experienced surgeons.

Myth: LASIK always causes permanent dry eyes.
Truth: While temporary dry eyes are common in the first few weeks to months after LASIK, most cases improve naturally over time. Long-term severe dryness is uncommon, especially with modern techniques and careful preoperative screening.

Myth: LASIK is always safer than ICL.
Truth: Both LASIK and ICL are highly safe when performed on suitable candidates. The best procedure for you depends on factors such as corneal thickness, refractive error, and overall eye health.

Myth: ICLs need frequent replacement.
Truth: Modern ICLs are designed to last a lifetime and typically do not need to be replaced unless there are rare complications or changes in vision.

Myth: LASIK can correct any level of vision problems.
Truth: LASIK is most effective for mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Very high prescriptions may be better treated with ICL.

Myth: Both procedures are painful.
Truth: Both LASIK and ICL are performed under local anaesthetic drops, and discomfort is usually minimal. Most patients describe only mild irritation during and after the procedure.

Myth: Vision results are unpredictable.
Truth: Both LASIK and ICL have high success rates, with the majority of patients achieving 20/25 vision or better. Advanced preoperative measurements and planning make outcomes very predictable.

Myth: You can’t have LASIK or ICL if you’re over a certain age.
Truth: Age alone isn’t a barrier. Suitability depends more on eye health, prescription stability, and presence of conditions like cataracts.

Long-Term Outlook

Both LASIK and ICL offer excellent long-term results, with high patient satisfaction rates. Most people achieve 20/20 vision or better, and studies show that over 95% of patients are happy with their outcomes, whether they choose LASIK or ICL.

It’s important to remember that long-term success depends on realistic expectations. Neither procedure can completely halt natural ageing changes in the eye. Over time, most people will experience presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on close objects) and may develop cataracts. These changes are a normal part of ageing and are not related to the safety or effectiveness of LASIK or ICL.

With proper preoperative assessment, ongoing eye care, and timely management of age-related eye conditions, both LASIK and ICL can provide lasting vision improvement and a significant reduction in dependence on glasses or contact lenses for many years.

FAQs About LASIK and ICL Safety

  1. Is ICL surgery safe for everyone?
    ICL is generally very safe, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Candidates need healthy eyes without severe glaucoma, cataracts, or uncontrolled medical conditions. Your eye surgeon will conduct detailed measurements to ensure the lens fits safely and won’t affect intraocular pressure or the natural lens.
  2. Can LASIK cause permanent vision problems?
    Permanent vision problems after LASIK are extremely rare. Most complications are minor, such as temporary glare, halos, or mild dryness, which usually improve within months. Serious issues like corneal ectasia are uncommon, particularly with careful preoperative screening and modern laser techniques.
  3. How long do the results of LASIK and ICL last?
    LASIK results are permanent, but natural ageing changes—like presbyopia or cataracts—may affect vision over time. ICL provides long-lasting correction, and one advantage is reversibility; the lens can be removed or replaced if your prescription changes.
  4. Will I experience dry eyes after surgery?
    Dry eyes are a common temporary side effect of LASIK because corneal nerves are affected. Most patients see improvement within a few months. ICL typically causes fewer dry eye issues since the cornea isn’t altered. Pre-existing dry eye can influence which procedure is safer for you.
  5. Is one procedure riskier than the other?
    Not necessarily. LASIK carries more risks for corneal thinning and dry eyes, while ICL has slightly higher risks for internal eye complications such as cataracts or raised intraocular pressure. Overall, both are very safe when patients are carefully screened and treated by experienced surgeons.
  6. Can I reverse LASIK or ICL if I change my mind?
    LASIK is permanent and cannot be reversed. If your prescription changes, enhancement procedures may be required. ICL, on the other hand, is reversible; the lens can be removed or replaced, offering greater flexibility if your vision changes over time.
  7. How quickly will I recover after surgery?
    LASIK recovery is generally quick, with most people returning to normal activities within 24–48 hours. ICL recovery may take a few days to a week, depending on healing. Mild halos, glare, or light sensitivity may occur initially but usually settle with time.
  8. Are there age limits for LASIK or ICL?
    There isn’t a strict age limit. Suitability depends more on eye health, prescription stability, and absence of conditions like cataracts or glaucoma. Both procedures can be safe for adults at different life stages if the eyes are thoroughly evaluated.
  9. Can LASIK or ICL correct any prescription?
    LASIK is most effective for mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Very high prescriptions or thin corneas may make LASIK less suitable. ICL is often preferred for high prescriptions or patients not eligible for LASIK.
  10. How important is the surgeon’s experience?
    The surgeon’s expertise is crucial for safety and optimal results. A highly experienced surgeon ensures proper preoperative assessment, selects the most suitable procedure, and minimises risks during surgery. Choosing a qualified clinic can be just as important as choosing between LASIK and ICL.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Between ICL and LASIK

ICL surgery can be a life-changing option for many people, offering clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it’s not suitable for everyone. Factors such as age, prescription stability, corneal health, existing eye conditions, and overall health all play a role in determining whether the procedure is safe and effective for you.

Understanding these factors beforehand helps you make an informed decision and minimises the risk of complications. If you would like to explore the best options for ICL surgery in London, you can get in touch with our clinic to book a consultation and speak directly with our team. A professional assessment ensures your eyes are thoroughly evaluated and helps you choose the safest and most effective path to improved vision.

References:

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  2. García, C. (2022). ‘Comparison of the Optical Quality Vision Between Real Post-Operative Eyes After ICL and LASIK’, Scientific Reports, 12(1), p. 12345. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-23662-3
  3. Bouchard, C.S. (2022). ‘STAAR Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL) vs. LASIK: A Comparative Study’, Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 63(2), pp. 123–130. Available at: https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2781690
  4. Abdulaziz, A.L.S. (2020). ‘Outcomes of Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) for Myopia Correction: A One-Year Follow-Up Study’, Journal of Refractive Surgery, 36(9), pp. 567–573. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2452403420300145
  5. Ye, Y. (2025). ‘Comparison of Monovision Surgery Using ICL V4c or FS-LASIK for Myopic Astigmatism’, Scientific Reports, 15(1), p. 67890. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-88588-y