Solution when laser is not an option
ICL implantation at Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center
ICL implantation is a permanent and safe solution that provides sharp vision to those who are not suitable for laser eye surgery due to thin corneas or high diopters.
Sharp vision even with high diopters
Alternative for thin corneas
Can be removed if other surgery is needed
Who is ICL implantation a solution for?
The ICL is a solution for patients who are not candidates for laser eye surgery. The following list can help you decide if you are a good candidate for the treatment.
We recommend it if:
- Adults between 21 and 40 years old
- Not suitable for laser treatment due to thin cornea
- Myopia between −0.5 and −18 diopters
- Astigmatism (cylinder) up to 6 diopters
- Stable visual acuity for the past 1 year
- Your eyes can no longer tolerate wearing contact lenses.
- You want to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses
- Afraid of laser eye surgery
When is ICL implantation not recommended?
For safety reasons, implantation of an ICL may not be feasible.
Most common reasons for exclusion:
- Some autoimmune diseases
- Certain wound healing problems
- Severe blurred vision
- Presence of cataracts
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding period
- You only wear reading glasses
The exact answer is always given during a personal, detailed suitability assessment. If you are not suitable, our doctors will recommend another safe option.
Process
This is how ICL implantation works step by step
Every step of the ICL implantation process is pre-planned and gentle. We will accompany you from the eligibility assessment through the surgery to the full recovery, so that you always feel safe.
The first step is a detailed, painless eye examination. Based on the measurements, our specialists will determine whether an ICL artificial lens is the best solution for you.
Period: ≈ 60–90 minutes
More information
The suitability assessment will include the following:
- Accurate measurement of diopter, cylinder, and corneal thickness.
- Tear film and pupil examination (with pupil dilation).
- Slit lamp examination of the anterior segment and fundus (pupil dilation with eye drops).
- Medical consultation: discussing results, answering questions.
Practical information:
- It is recommended to remove soft contact lenses 3 days before the examination, and hard lenses 3 weeks before.
- Blurred vision may occur for 2-3 hours due to dilation; avoid driving during this period.
- Bring your previous eye tests with you, if you have any.
Outcome:
- A clear yes/no decision about ICL implantation, or an alternative suggestion.
- Personalized treatment plan and timing.
The surgery is completely painless with local anesthetic eye drops. The surgeon implants the lens behind the iris through a tiny incision of a few millimeters. The lens interacts with the natural structure of the eye and provides immediate sharper vision.
Period: ≈ 15–20 minutes for both eyes
More information
Steps in brief:
- Preparation, disinfection, application of eyelid speculum
- Making a tiny incision of a few millimeters at the edge of the cornea
- Placing and carefully implanting the ICL behind the iris
- Checking and adjusting the lens position
- Short observation after the surgery, then you can go home with an escort
Please note this:
- Do not use makeup, perfume, or hair products containing alcohol for 3-4 days before surgery.
- We recommend that you avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before and 48 hours after surgery.
- Bring quality sunglasses due to light sensitivity.
- Arrange for transportation home.
Most patients experience significant improvement the next day. Mild sensitivity to light or a foreign body sensation may occur in the first few days, but these quickly subside.
Period: ≈ 24-72 hours
More information
The first 24–72 hours:
- Tearing, stinging, and sensitivity to light may occur for a few hours — this is normal.
- Rest with your eyes closed for 3–4 hours after surgery.
- Use the eye drops prescribed by your doctor according to protocol.
- Don't rub your eyes.
- Screen: with short segments, frequent blinking, artificial tears.
Returning to daily routine after ICL implantation:
- Work: for office work usually after 2–3 days.
- Driving: typically after the first check-up, with medical approval.
- Swimming/sauna: typically recommended after 5-6 weeks.
(Of course, everyone heals at a different rate, so always follow your doctor's instructions.)
For safety reasons, we check the condition of the eye several times after surgery. The check-ups are short (10–15 minutes), but they are crucial for the long-term outcome.
Period: ≈ 1-3 months
More information
Mandatory follow-ups:
- 24-hour control: the first check
- 1 week: assessment of vision and healing
- 1 month: monitoring stabilization
- 3 months: long-term final examination
Follow-up:
Dry eyes, light sensitivity or slight blurring may occur temporarily, but are well managed. The result gradually stabilizes, usually within a few months.
Results
What results can you expect after ICL?
The ICL is one of the safest and most flexible vision correction solutions, especially for those who are not eligible for laser treatment. The vast majority of patients report sharp vision and lasting satisfaction, both during the day and at night.
A safe, proven alternative to laser treatment
ICL implantation has been used for more than 25 years, with hundreds of thousands of procedures performed worldwide, with extremely high patient satisfaction.
- Ideal for thin corneas
- Long-lasting, stable vision improvement
- Provides a natural feel
- Removable and replaceable
What did our patients experience after ICL implantation?
Sharp vision even at high diopters
The treatment can be performed up to -18 diopters.
Excellent night vision
After treatment: clearer vision at night and fewer halos.
Built-in UV protection
The ICL artificial lens protects the eye from the sun's harmful rays.
“ICL implantation is a safe and gentle procedure for those for whom laser treatment is not an option. I consider it a permanent solution for anyone who wants to be free from the limitations of glasses or contact lenses.”
Dr. Kristóf Perényi, chief physician and clinic director
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, not only technology but also care is top-notch. Our doctors and the entire team work every step of the way to ensure you enjoy clear vision safely and with satisfaction.
How does it work?
How does the ICL artificial lens work?
The ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a special implantable lens that is placed between the iris and the lens of the eye. This does not reshape the cornea, but instead places an additional lens in the eye that continuously sharpens vision.
The ICL lens preserves the natural structure of the eye while providing stable and safe vision correction.
Safety and risks
Safety and risks during ICL surgery
ICL implantation has been proven for over 25 years, helping hundreds of thousands of people worldwide to see more clearly. International clinical experience and millions of implantations prove that the method is safe and reliable in the long term. As with any procedure, there may be temporary side effects, but these are typically mild and easily manageable.
Occasional, temporary symptoms may include:
- Dry eyes or tearing
- Sensitivity to light, glare at night
- Short-term foreign body sensation
- Slight blurring in the first few days of recovery
What we do for safety:
- Modern diagnostic and laser equipment
- Experienced ophthalmologists who have performed thousands of surgeries
- Strict hygiene and surgical protocols
- Regular check-ups until full recovery
The ICL artificial lens was approved in Europe in 1997 and in the United States in 2005. Since then, more than 1 million patients worldwide have received the treatment, and surveys show that 99% of patients are satisfied with the results.
Prices and financing
ICL artificial lens price and financing options
The price of ICL implantation:
HUF 657,000 / eye
- This price includes the surgery and mandatory check-ups.
Discounts:
- For our rural patients 5000 HUF travel allowance
- With student ID 10,000 HUF extra discount
Financing
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, it is important to us that treatment can be planned financially, which is why we offer several financing solutions:
Instalment payment
Our clinic offers flexible instalment payment plans.
More information can be found on the Instalment payment page.
Health fund settlement
The full amount is payable
For detailed information, see Instalment payment menu.
Doctor and team
Our doctors and team - professional experience, personal care
ICL implantation is performed at Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center by experienced ophthalmologists who bring their domestic and international experience to the service of patients. In addition to professional knowledge, personal attention and care are also our core values.
Dr. Kristóf Perényi, chief physician and clinic director
He is an ophthalmologist who graduated from Semmelweis University and acquired the most modern laser techniques through training abroad.
Mission: to provide a safe, natural vision experience for all of its patients.
Security and support throughout the entire process
The key to success is not only the expertise of the doctor, but also the cooperation of the entire team – from assistants to coordinators to colleagues performing follow-up examinations. This is how we ensure that all our patients feel safe and supported at every step of the process.
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions about ICL
We have collected the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate the ICL surgery process.
How is ICL different from laser eye surgery?
The ICL does not reshape the cornea, but instead implants an additional lens into the eye. This is a safe solution even for those who are not suitable for laser surgery due to thin corneas or high diopters.
Is the surgery painful?
No. ICL implantation is completely painless with local anesthetic eye drops. There may be mild discomfort after the surgery, but this will subside quickly.
How long does the intervention take?
The entire surgery usually takes 10-15 minutes per eye.
How long is the recovery time?
Most patients experience significant improvement the next day. Full stabilization of vision occurs within a few weeks.
When can I drive again?
Usually after the first check-up, with medical approval.
What side effects may occur?
Temporary light sensitivity, tearing, or mild blurring may occur. These are well-tolerated and will resolve in most cases within a few days.
What happens if I need other eye surgery in the future?
The eyes should not be rubbed, water and makeup should be avoided. Sunglasses with UV filters should be worn outdoors. Eye drops prescribed by a doctor should be used exactly as prescribed.
Are there any discounts?
Yes. We provide a travel subsidy of HUF 5,000 for patients from rural areas, and a HUF 10,000 discount on the price of laser treatment for students.
Book an appointment
Take the first step towards insight with us.
The first step in ICL implantation is a detailed, painless suitability assessment. This will give you an accurate answer as to whether the procedure is right for you.
Online appointment booking for suitability assessment
Complete an online suitability assessment
We provide the opportunity to complete an online suitability test, during which you can find out which type of treatment is the most ideal choice for you.
The test will take no more than 5 minutes to complete.
- Bécsi út 68-84, 1034 Budapest
- recepcio@stjameshospital.hu
- +36 1 788 2927
Contact
Location and approach
Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center is located at 1034 Budapest, Bécsi Street 68-84. You can find it in an easily accessible location.
Whether you are coming from Budapest or from another part of the country, we welcome you in a discreet and premium environment, in comfortable and relaxed conditions.
Access and parking:
- Private parking in the clinic's underground garage (prior arrangement required, parking is subject to a fee)
- Easily accessible by public transport (bus and tram stops nearby)
- We provide detailed guidance and travel assistance for those arriving from outside the city.
