Are you thinking about ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery to correct your vision? At Park Avenue LASEK, we understand why ICL can be an attractive option for vision correction, especially for those who have been told they’re not candidates for LASIK. However, before making a decision, we invite you to explore LASEK, a safer, non-invasive alternative that offers significant advantages compared to ICL surgery.
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a procedure that involves surgically placing a specialized lens inside the eye, between the natural lens and the iris. While ICL can effectively treat a range of refractive errors, it still involves an intraocular procedure, which carries certain risks, including infection and complications related to the implantation process.
LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy), by contrast, is a non-invasive, laser-based procedure that does not require any incisions or implantations. Instead, the outermost layer of the cornea is gently loosened, and the underlying corneal tissue is reshaped using an excimer laser to correct refractive errors. This approach eliminates the need for an implanted lens and significantly reduces the potential risks associated with an intraocular procedure.
No Implants, No Incisions: Unlike ICL, LASEK does not require surgically placing a lens in your eye, making it a safer option for those concerned about invasive procedures.
Less Risk of Infection: Since LASEK is an external laser-based procedure, it greatly reduces the risk of infections that are possible with intraocular surgeries like ICL.
Preserves Eye Structure: LASEK reshapes the cornea without altering the natural structure of the eye, whereas ICL involves inserting an artificial lens, which may lead to complications such as cataracts or elevated intraocular pressure.
Quick Recovery Time: With LASEK, most patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days, and the recovery process is straightforward with fewer follow-up requirements compared to ICL.
We understand that everyone’s eyes are different, and what works for one person may not be the best choice for another. If you’ve been considering ICL because of a high prescription or thin corneas, LASEK may still be a viable alternative. At Park Avenue LASEK, we specialize in assessing each patient’s unique needs to determine if LASEK is the right option for you.
ICL surgery is an effective solution for many patients, but it is important to weigh all available options before proceeding with an invasive intraocular procedure. LASEK offers a safer, non-invasive path to clear vision, without the risks associated with placing a foreign object in your eye.
We offer consultations for those considering ICL or other vision correction procedures, so you can make the best decision for your eye health. During your consultation, we’ll assess your individual needs, explain the benefits of LASEK, and help you determine if this non-invasive alternative is right for you.
Contact Us Today: Call us at (212) 741-8628 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation. We accept all major medical and vision insurance plans, making it easier for you to access the care you need.
LASEK is the most modern way to perform laser vision correction. Because it’s 100% non-cutting and 100% non-invasive, it’s 10x safer than LASIK. Dr. Chynn is the only surgeon in the world who has LASIK in one eye & LASEK in the other.
Park Avenue LASEK is the only LASIK, LASEK, PRK and SMILE provider in NY, NJ, CT or PA who is authorized for all major medical insurance plans including GHI, Oxford, Cigna, BCBS, Emblem, Empire, Medicare, and Oscar (among others), as well as all major vision insurance plans, including VSP and EyeMed.

102 E 25th St, New York, NY 10010
Dr. Chynn graduated from Dartmouth + Columbia + Harvard + Emory + NYU & has been on ABC, NBC, CBS & in the NY Times & Wall St. Journal
He’s performed 40,000 LASIK, SMILE, PRK, LASEK, & ICLs. He’s the ONLY eye surgeon in the US who’s had both LASIK & LASEK himself, so knows the pluses & minuses of each!
Dr. Chynn specializes in treating cases which don’t qualify for LASIK, including:
• extreme prescriptions
• thin corneas
• astigmatism
• need for reading glasses
See other Real Patient Questions that Dr. Chynn has answered! Ask Dr Chynn