Table of contents

• Understanding Progressive Nearsightedness
• ICL Lens Implants: A Detailed Medical Overview
• The ICL Lens Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step
• Best Clinics in Korea for Progressive Nearsightedness
• Navigating ICL Lens Implant Surgery in South Korea for Medical Tourists
• Cost Analysis: ICL Lens Implants in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes with ICL Lens Implants for Progressive Nearsightedness
• Conclusion and Recommendations
• References

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Progressive nearsightedness is a vision condition where distance blur keeps getting worse, and glasses alone just can’t keep up. For those affected, this ongoing decline in vision can be frustrating and even risky for long-term eye health. In this article, we’ll break down what progressive nearsightedness is, explain how the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure works, walk through the surgical steps, compare costs for medical tourists, and share real patient experiences and outcomes with this advanced vision correction option.

Understanding Progressive Nearsightedness

Progressive nearsightedness, also known as myopia, near-sightedness, or short-sightedness, is more than just blurry distance vision—it’s a condition that keeps getting worse over time. This means stronger and thicker glasses every year, and it can lead to serious eye health risks down the road.

Definition and Characteristics

Progressive nearsightedness is defined as myopia that worsens steadily, often requiring at least a half-diopter increase in prescription each year. The main culprit is axial myopia, where the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina and resulting in blurry distance vision. While this usually starts in childhood or adolescence, it can continue into early adulthood. The earlier myopia starts, the higher the risk of developing severe nearsightedness.

Common Pseudonyms

You might hear this condition called degenerative myopia, malignant myopia, or pathological myopia when it’s especially aggressive. When it reaches severe levels, it’s often referred to as high myopia.

Why Glasses Alone are Often Insufficient

Glasses and contacts can correct blurry vision, but they don’t stop myopia from getting worse. For people with progressive nearsightedness, this means a never-ending cycle of stronger, bulkier, and pricier lenses. The phrase “worsening distance blur unresponsive to glasses alone” really highlights why traditional eyewear isn’t enough for this advancing condition.

Potential Complications Associated with High Progressive Myopia

Unchecked eye growth and stretching, especially of the retina, can lead to serious complications:

• Myopic macular degeneration: 845 times higher risk
• Retinal detachment: 12.6 times higher risk
• Posterior subcapsular cataracts: 4.55 times higher risk; nuclear cataracts: 2.86 times higher risk
• Glaucoma: Increased risk

These complications can cause permanent vision loss and seriously impact daily life.

High myopia is on the rise globally, projected to affect nearly 10% of the world’s population by 2050, up from 2.8% in 2015. This trend makes finding effective, long-term solutions more urgent than ever. Since glasses don’t slow progression, advanced options like ICL are becoming essential—not just for individuals, but as a public health strategy.

Lifestyle factors also play a role. Less time outdoors, too much screen time, and few breaks during close-up work can all contribute to myopia progression. While ICL is a powerful corrective tool, combining it with healthy habits can help slow down further changes and protect younger family members from developing myopia.

ICL Lens Implants: A Detailed Medical Overview

The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure is a major step forward in vision correction, especially for people with high prescriptions or unique eye shapes.

What is an Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)?

An ICL is a soft, biocompatible lens made from Collamer—a blend of plastic and collagen—that’s surgically implanted inside the eye. It sits between the iris and the natural lens, working alongside your eye’s own lens to focus light correctly. Sometimes it’s called a Phakic Intraocular Lens (P-IOL) or an implantable contact lens.

How ICLs Work to Correct Vision

The ICL bends light onto the retina, much like glasses or contacts, but from inside the eye. Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery doesn’t remove or reshape any corneal tissue, so your eye’s natural structure stays intact.

Key Benefits of ICL Surgery

• Wide prescription range: Great for moderate to high myopia and astigmatism, even when LASIK isn’t an option.
• Reversible and removable: The lens can be taken out or replaced if your vision changes.
• Preserves corneal structure: No corneal thinning, making it ideal for people with thin corneas.
• Suitable for dry eyes: Minimal impact on tear production, unlike some laser surgeries.
• Superior vision quality: Many patients report sharper, “high-definition” vision.
• Excellent night vision: Fewer issues with glare or halos compared to laser surgery.
• Built-in UV protection: The lens material blocks harmful UV rays.
• Quick recovery: Most people see better within 24–48 hours and need little downtime.

The reversibility and non-invasive nature of ICL make it especially appealing for those worried about permanent changes to their eyes. If your prescription changes or you develop age-related conditions, the lens can be updated or removed.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Like any surgery, ICL has some risks:

• Temporary discomfort: Mild sensitivity or blurry vision right after surgery, usually gone in days.
• Glare and halos: Some may notice these, especially at night, but they often fade.
• Increased eye pressure: Rarely, the lens can raise eye pressure, which needs monitoring.
• Cataract formation: Rare, but possible, especially if fluid flow in the eye is affected.
• Retinal detachment: A rare but serious risk.
• Infection and inflammation: Uncommon but possible.
• Need for additional surgery: Very rarely, the lens may need adjustment or removal.

Many risks are linked to improper lens sizing or placement, so choosing a clinic with advanced diagnostics and experienced surgeons is crucial.

Ideal Candidates for ICL Surgery

Good candidates for ICL surgery typically:

• Are 18–50 years old (often 21–45 recommended)
• Have a stable prescription for at least a year
• Need correction for moderate to severe nearsightedness (about -3.00 to -20.00 diopters) or astigmatism
• Have healthy eyes (no glaucoma, cataracts, or infections)
• Have thin corneas or dry eyes that make LASIK unsuitable
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

The ICL Lens Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step

Knowing what to expect can make the ICL process much less intimidating.

Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Preparation

It all starts with a thorough eye exam, including detailed measurements to ensure the lens fits perfectly. If you’re a good candidate, your ICL lenses are custom-made. Sometimes, you’ll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops before surgery to prevent infection.

Older ICL models required a laser iridotomy (tiny holes in the iris) before surgery, but newer EVO ICL lenses have a built-in hole, so this step is usually skipped.

On surgery day, you’ll get dilating and numbing drops, and maybe a mild sedative. Your eye is cleaned, and a tool keeps your eyelids open while you lie comfortably on your back.

Detailed Description of the Surgical Process

ICL surgery is minimally invasive and done under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a tiny incision (2–3 mm) at the cornea’s edge, then folds and inserts the ICL through this opening. The lens unfolds behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. The incision usually heals on its own, and the whole process takes just 15–30 minutes per eye. Both eyes can often be done in one session.

The EVO ICL’s central hole means no extra laser procedure is needed, making the process simpler and less stressful for patients.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery Timeline

After surgery, you’ll get eye drops or ointment, and sometimes an eye patch. Most people notice clearer vision within 24 hours, with mild discomfort or light sensitivity fading quickly.

You can usually return to normal activities within a day or two. Use prescribed drops for about two weeks, avoid rubbing your eyes, wear sunglasses outdoors, and skip swimming, saunas, and heavy exercise for a week. No eye makeup for at least a week.

Vision continues to stabilize over a few weeks, and the ICL is designed to last indefinitely without maintenance.

The quick recovery is a big plus, especially for medical tourists who want to minimize travel time and disruption.

Follow-up Appointment Schedule

A follow-up is usually scheduled within 24 hours, with more visits at one month, six months, and sometimes a year. Regular check-ups are important, especially for those with a history of progressive myopia.

Best Clinics in Korea for Progressive Nearsightedness

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for progressive nearsightedness:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Bright Eye Clinic	Advanced vision correction and cataract surgery, personalized treatment plans, comprehensive refractive surgeries including SMILE Pro, SMILE LASIK, LASIK, LASEK, use of VisuMax 800 laser and Lumera 700 microscope, premium intraocular lenses, thorough pre-surgery exams and regular eye health checkups	SMILE Pro, SMILE LASIK, LASIK, LASEK with VisuMax 800 laser; cataract removal with Lumera 700 microscope; premium intraocular lenses
BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil	Comprehensive vision correction procedures including SMILE, LASIK, LASEK, SMILE PRO, Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) for high myopia/thin corneas, cataract and presbyopia treatments, patient safety and satisfaction focus	SMILE, LASIK, LASEK, SMILE PRO, Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL), monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses
BnVIIT Eye Clinic	Over 30 years experience, 550,000 successful surgeries, advanced A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, wide range of vision correction options, customized care	SMILE, all-laser LASIK, all-laser LASEK (PRK), implantable lenses (PIOL), advanced cataract surgery, orthokeratology (Ortho-K or Dream Lens)

Bright Eye Clinic

Bright Eye Clinic, located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, is renowned for its advanced vision correction and cataract surgery services. Utilizing world-class technology and a team of highly skilled professionals, the clinic attracts patients from around the globe seeking exceptional eye care. Bright Eye Clinic is committed to providing personalized treatment plans, ensuring each patient receives the most effective and safest solutions for their vision needs.

The clinic offers a comprehensive range of refractive surgeries, including SMILE Pro, SMILE LASIK, LASIK, and LASEK, all performed with cutting-edge equipment such as the VisuMax 800 laser. For patients with cataracts, Bright Eye Clinic employs the Lumera 700 microscope for precise cataract removal and offers a selection of premium intraocular lenses tailored to individual requirements. Thorough pre-surgery exams and regular eye health checkups further support optimal outcomes, making Bright Eye Clinic a trusted destination for those seeking progressive nearsightedness management and overall eye health.

Find more about this clinic here: Bright Eye Clinic Website

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil stands out as a premier eye care center in Korea, renowned for its comprehensive and advanced solutions for progressive nearsightedness and other vision impairments. The clinic offers a full spectrum of cutting-edge vision correction procedures, including SMILE, LASIK, LASEK, and the latest SMILE PRO, each tailored to address different degrees and types of refractive errors. For patients with high myopia or thin corneas, BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil provides Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedures, ensuring safe and effective correction even for those who may not be candidates for laser surgery.

In addition to refractive surgeries, the clinic specializes in cataract and presbyopia treatments, utilizing both monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses to restore clear vision at various distances. BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil is committed to patient safety and satisfaction, offering thorough pre- and post-surgery instructions to optimize outcomes. With its state-of-the-art technology and experienced medical team, the clinic delivers personalized care for individuals seeking lasting solutions to progressive nearsightedness and other vision challenges.

Find more about this clinic here: BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Website

BnVIIT Eye Clinic

B&VIIT Eye Center, located in the heart of Gangnam, Korea, stands as a leader in ophthalmic care with over 30 years of experience and a remarkable record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries. The clinic is renowned for its advanced A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, which allows for highly personalized treatment planning and precise outcomes. B&VIIT Eye Center offers a comprehensive range of vision correction options, making it a trusted destination for patients seeking solutions for progressive nearsightedness and other refractive errors.

The clinic’s expertise spans the latest in refractive surgery, including SMILE, all-laser LASIK, and all-laser LASEK (PRK), each designed to address varying degrees of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. For patients who may not be suitable candidates for laser procedures, B&VIIT provides implantable lenses (PIOL) and advanced cataract surgery. Additionally, the center offers orthokeratology (Ortho-K or Dream Lens), a non-surgical option that temporarily reshapes the cornea overnight. With a strong emphasis on customized care, B&VIIT ensures that every patient receives a tailored treatment plan to match their unique visual needs and lifestyle.

Find more about this clinic here: BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website

Navigating ICL Lens Implant Surgery in South Korea for Medical Tourists

South Korea is a top destination for ICL surgery, drawing international patients with its high-quality care and competitive prices.

Why South Korea is a Popular Destination for ICL Surgery

• World-class facilities: Advanced eye centers with the latest technology, like Gangnam GS Eye Clinic and B&VIIT Eye Center.
• Expert surgeons: Highly trained ophthalmologists with extensive experience.
• Affordable pricing: Lower costs than many Western countries, thanks to high procedure volumes and supportive government policies.
• Fast recovery: Efficient care protocols mean most patients are back to normal in a day or two.
• Medical tourism support: English-speaking staff, translators, and “one-day surgery” options make the process smooth for international patients.

Korean clinics have streamlined their processes for efficiency, making them especially attractive for those traveling from abroad.

Process for International Patients

Here’s what the typical journey looks like:

• Initial consultation: Contact a clinic online or by phone. Undergo a comprehensive eye exam, sometimes with up to 60 different tests. Some clinics use AI to personalize your surgical plan.
• Lens customization and scheduling: Once approved, your lenses are custom-made and surgery is scheduled—sometimes even on the same day as your exam.
• Travel arrangements: You’ll handle your own visa, flights, and accommodation, but clinics may help with documentation.
• Surgery day: Local anesthesia is used, and the procedure takes 15–30 minutes per eye. You’ll be monitored briefly, then discharged the same day.
• Follow-up visits: A check-up is done within 24 hours, with more visits over the next few weeks. Plan to stay in Korea for at least 3–5 days to cover these appointments.
• Recovery: Most people resume daily activities within a day or two, using prescribed drops and avoiding strenuous activities for a week.

Key Considerations for Medical Tourists

• Clinic selection: Look for clinics with strong reputations, advanced technology, and high patient satisfaction.
• Language services: Make sure English-speaking staff or translators are available.
• Comprehensive packages: Confirm what’s included in the price—pre-op, surgery, and post-op care are often bundled, but travel and accommodation are usually separate.
• Logistics: Plan your own accommodation and transport.

South Korea’s combination of quality care and affordability, without cutting corners on safety or diagnostics, makes it a reassuring choice for medical tourists.

Cost Analysis: ICL Lens Implants in South Korea vs. Global Destinations

Cost is a big factor for many considering ICL surgery, especially those looking at options abroad.

Average Costs of ICL Surgery in South Korea

EVO ICL surgery in South Korea typically costs ₩3,500,000 to ₩5,500,000 KRW per eye (about $2,450 to $3,850 USD per eye), or ₩7,000,000 to ₩11,000,000 KRW ($4,900 to $7,700 USD) for both eyes. Discounts for both eyes are common. The price usually includes the lens, pre-op exams, surgery, anesthesia, and post-op care—but not travel or accommodation.

Comparison of ICL Costs with Other Countries from a Medical Tourist's Perspective

Here’s how South Korea stacks up against other countries:

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD per eye)	Notes / Inclusions / Considerations
South Korea	$2,450 – $3,850	Includes pre-op, surgery, post-op care. Discounts for both eyes. Accommodation/travel separate.
USA	$3,500 – $6,000	Up to $12,000+ for both eyes. Varies by provider/location. Often not fully covered by insurance.
Turkey	$2,000 – $4,000	Some packages include hospital stay, transport, host. Research quality/accreditation.
India	$1,200	$2,300–$3,500 for both eyes. Includes pre-op, diagnosis, surgeon, lens, hospital stay.
Germany	~$3,800 (€3,543)	Public insurance rarely covers elective procedures.
Australia	$2,600 – $3,900 (AUD 4,000–6,000)	Up to AUD 8,500 per eye. Medicare doesn’t cover elective laser eye surgeries.

The price gap between South Korea and Western countries is significant, making medical tourism a smart financial choice for many. The all-inclusive nature of Korean packages also means fewer surprise costs compared to the fragmented billing common in the US or Australia.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes with ICL Lens Implants for Progressive Nearsightedness

ICL lens implants do more than just correct vision—they can transform lives.

Efficacy and Safety Outcomes

Studies show that ICL-V4c implantation is highly effective and safe for high and super-high myopia. Most patients see big improvements in vision and enjoy stable results for years. Satisfaction rates are as high as 99%.

For high myopia (SE > -10D) and super-high myopia (SE ≤ -10D), five-year efficacy indices were 0.91 and 0.80, with safety indices at 1.10 for both. Endothelial cell density remained stable, and any temporary increase in eye pressure usually resolved quickly. The procedure is minimally invasive, predictable, and reversible.

However, for the most severe cases, ICL may not completely stop the eye from growing longer, so ongoing monitoring is important.

Impact on Quality of Life and Psychological Well-being

ICL surgery can dramatically boost confidence and open up new career or lifestyle opportunities. Many patients report less anxiety and depression after surgery, as measured by standard scales. The freedom from thick glasses or uncomfortable contacts is life-changing, making daily activities and sports much easier.

The psychological benefits are just as important as the visual ones, highlighting the holistic impact of ICL surgery.

Real-life Success Stories

• Sarah, 32, graphic designer: No longer needs thick glasses or contacts after ICL.
• John, professional athlete: Can now compete without vision aids.
• 28-year-old software engineer: Freed from -10.00 diopter glasses after ICL.
• 35-year-old teacher: Achieved perfect vision with ICL after being ineligible for LASIK.
• Mr. Rajesh: Overcame extreme nearsightedness and now enjoys perfect vision.

Long-term Considerations

ICL lenses are meant to last a lifetime, but they can be removed or replaced if needed. Natural aging, like presbyopia or cataracts, can still occur, and the ICL can be taken out during cataract surgery if necessary.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Progressive nearsightedness is a tough condition that glasses alone can’t fix, and it carries real risks for long-term eye health. The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure offers a highly effective, reversible, and life-changing solution, especially for those with high prescriptions or who aren’t candidates for LASIK. South Korea stands out as a top destination for ICL surgery, offering world-class care, experienced surgeons, and competitive pricing. While ICL provides excellent vision and quality-of-life improvements, patients with severe progressive myopia should continue regular follow-ups, as eye growth may still occur.

Recommendations:

• Get a thorough consultation with a refractive surgery specialist.
• Choose clinics with strong reputations, advanced technology, and transparent pricing.
• Understand the full procedure and recovery process.
• Follow all aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
• Maintain healthy eye habits, especially for younger patients.
• Factor in all costs, including travel and accommodation, when planning medical tourism.

References

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