You've made it through the consultations and comparisons with LASIK, and perhaps your ICL surgery date is approaching. But one question is still lingering:
"How long do implantable contact lens last?"
Unlike traditional contacts that you pop in and out daily or monthly, ICLs (Implantable Collamer Lenses) are placed inside your eye—permanently.
So naturally, patients want to know:
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Let's take a deep dive into the longevity, durability, and long-term outcomes of ICLs in 2025— based on real data, ophthalmology expert insights, and what patients around the world are experiencing today.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that you should be aware of. These can include infection, inflammation, and increased intraocular pressure. However, these risks are rare and can be managed with proper care and follow-up.
An ICL is a thin, flexible lens made from Collamer®, a collagen-based biocompatible material. It's surgically inserted between the iris and the natural lens, remaining there to correct your vision from the inside.
Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea (irreversibly), ICLs leave your eye's structure untouched—and can be removed or replaced later if needed.
How Long Do They Last?
ICLs are designed to last for decades—often a lifetime.
The EVO ICL, one of the most widely used versions today, has been on the market since the early 2000s.
Clinical studies now span over 20 years of use, and the results are consistently precise:
No material degradation No loss of clarity No immune reaction
No need for regular replacement
Patients implanted with ICLs 20 years or more ago are still enjoying sharp, clear, and comfortable vision—with no signs of wear or damage.
Yes, but with one significant difference from LASIK:
ICLs are permanent—but reversible.
You could keep them for life, but if anything changes—like cataracts in old age or if your prescription evolves—they can be:
This flexibility makes ICLs uniquely future-proof, providing you with a sense of security and confidence in your long-term vision correction.
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Common Patient Concern: Will My Vision Change Over Time? Some patients worry: "Even if the lens lasts, won't my eyes change?" The truth is:
In your 50s or 60s, presbyopia (near vision loss) and cataracts are common. These changes are not due to the ICL—they're part of the natural aging process.
Fortunately, if and when that happens:
So you're never "stuck" with your ICL. You're set for the best possible vision until age brings its changes.
Highly unlikely.
Collamer, the material used in ICLs, has proven to be:
In rare cases, some patients with older lens models implanted in the early 2000s reported slight clouding—but this has been largely eliminated in modern EVO and EVO+ ICL designs.
There's no moving part, no power source, and no mechanical stress—so the risk of "breaking" is virtually nonexistent.
One of the best things about ICLs? They require very low maintenance, giving you peace of mind and freedom from the burden of regular care.
However, long-term follow-up is still essential. Your eye doctor will usually recommend the following:
These visits monitor:
The vast majority of patients experience decades of trouble-free use without requiring ICL removal.
In patients under 40, ICLs offer very stable correction. However, for younger individuals still in their late teens or early 20s:
If a patient's prescription changes significantly later in life:
Patient Experiences After 10–20 Years
Let's hear from a few real-world patients:
"I got my ICLs in 2007. They've been perfect for 18 years. No issues. Just freedom from glasses." – Arun V., 44
"20 years later, I still don't feel them. I see like I'm 20 again. My friends with LASIK aren't so lucky."– Celeste G., 50
"Even when I needed cataract surgery at C2, my doctor simply removed the ICL and gave me a new lens. Smooth as anything." – Mr. Iqbal S., G5.
No. They don't break down or deteriorate.
Will I need to replace it after 10 years? Unlikely. Most people never need a replacement. Can ICLs be removed if required?
Yes. They're removable by an eye surgeon if the vision changes.
What happens if I develop cataracts later in life?
The ICL can be removed, and you can receive an intraocular lens (IOL) during cataract surgery.
Implantable contact lenses offer a long-term solution for individuals with severe myopia or those who may not be ideal candidates for traditional laser treatments. These lenses are surgically placed inside the eye, delivering clear and stable vision without reshaping the cornea. While ICLs are a great option, many patients also consider laser eye surgery Brisbane—a popular and minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors. Whatever you choose, be sure its the best decision for your lifestyle, age and budget.
