ICL
Intraocular Contact Lens
Considering ICL Surgery?
Discover a Safer, Non-Invasive Option at Park Avenue LASEK
Are you thinking about ICL (Implantable Contact 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.
Understanding ICL and LASEK: How Do They Compare?
ICL (Implantable Contact Lens) is a procedure that involves surgically placing a piece of plastic inside the eye, in the “potential space” between the natural lens and iris. While ICL can effectively treat extreme prescriptions, it involves using a diamond-tipped blade to cut deep into the eye, which makes is less safe than the LASEK laser procedure..
LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy), which was co-invented by Dr. Chynn when he was on the teaching faculty at Harvard, in contrast, uses a non-invasive, laser that does not require any cutting, nor implanting a piece of plastic permanently inside your body. This approach significantly reduces potential risks compared to ICL.
Why LASEK is Safer than ICL:
- No Implants — Unlike ICL, LASEK does not require surgically placing a piece of plastic permanently into your eye, making it better for people who don’t want a “foreign body” inside their eyeball for the rest of their lives.
- Less Risk of Infection — If you get an infection during ICL, there is a low but non-zero chance that you could go blind or lose your eye. This risk is zero with LASEK, because any infection would be on the exterior of your cornea–not deep within your eyeball.
- No risk of causing cataracts — During insertion of the lens during ICL, there’s a small risk the surgeon touches your natural lens with his forceps or the piece of plastic he’s inserting, which can cause a premature cataract, loss of vision, and the need for more extensive and invasive cataract surgery.
- No risk of causing bleeding in the eye — During insertion of the lens during ICL, or afterwards if the piece of plastic that’s implanted rubs against your iris, the blood vessels behind your iris can be torn, causing bleeding and loss of vision, which would require emergency surgery to remove the ICL. This risk in LASEK is zero, because LASEK is only on the surface of your cornea, not deep within your eye.
- No risk of causing holes in the iris — Months or years after ICL insertion, if the piece of plastic that was implanted behind your iris starts to chafe the iris as it dilates and constricts with changing illumination, the pigment of the iris can get rubbed off, causing a “moth eaten” appearance to your iris, which would be cosmetically detrimental. This would also require explanting the ICL, plus further complex surgery to repair the iris.
- No risk of causing glaucoma — If the above complication occurs and the plastic lens that’s inserted in ICL causes the pigment of the iris to be rubbed off, those pigment granules can get stuck in the drainage apparatus of your eye, causing glaucoma. Again, this would require further surgery to remove the ICL, plus treatment for glaucoma.
The ONLY advantage of ICL over LASEK is that visual recovery is faster with ICL (1-2 days) than with LASEK for extreme prescriptions (4-5 days).
LASEK is also substantially more affordable than ICL (several thousand dollars less, because you don’t have to have it in a “full OR”, you can safely have the less invasive LASEK in an ASC (Ambulatory Service Center), so you don’t have to pay thousands of dollars for an anesthesiologist.
Is LASEK Right for You?
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 a safer alternative. Call us to schedule a Second Opinion with one of our two eye surgeons—you can even request to be seen by Dr. Chynn himself!
Your Vision, Your Choice
ICL surgery is an effective solution for extreme prescriptions, but it is important to weigh all available options before proceeding with an expensive, invasive intraocular procedure. LASEK offers a safer, more affordable, non-invasive path to clear vision, without the risks associated with having a foreign object (the plastic lens) in your eye forever.
Book a LASEK Consultation to Explore Your Options
We offer consultations for those considering ICL, LASIK, PRK, Smile, or other vision correction procedures, so you can make the best decision for your eyes. 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.
Why Choose Us
Most Experienced Eye Surgeon In The US
Dr. Chynn’s graduated from Harvard, Columbia, Emory, Dartmouth and NYU and has performed 1,000 PRKs, 5,000 LASIKs, 10,000 epiLASEKs, 15,000 LASEKs – more than any surgeon in the US.
100% Non-Cutting with No Flap Complications
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.
Medical & Vision
Insurance Accepted
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.
I had astigmatism and Dr. Chynn and his friendly staff helped reassure me that everything worked out great. I'm seeing better than with glasses.
nathan d
17:50 20 Oct 26
My eye sight improved and is now 20/20. The procedure was completely painless.
James W.
17:38 17 Oct 26
Dr. Chynn and his team are very thorough and helpful! They are there with you every step of the surgery to address any questions or concerns. I am 1 month post-op and seeing 20/15! Very happy with my results! Make sure you follow every direction given to ensure you get the results you want. Thanks PAL!
Emily G.
00:13 13 Oct 26
I’m so excited to be getting my non-cutting LASEK done at Park Avenue LASEK! The office is a professional and welcoming environment, and I feel confident that I’m in great hands. It’s clear that the team values patient care, precision, and attention to detail, which makes this experience even more exciting. I’m looking forward to taking this next step toward clearer vision and couldn’t be happier to begin this journey with such a highly rated practice!
Ilma N.
22:21 08 Oct 26
Thanks for your kind help
Jingfan Y.
22:07 07 Oct 26
Dr.Chynn is best doctor!! I love my results
Christopher M.
18:09 07 Oct 26
One of the best places in New York for medical care, with outstanding surgical results performed by one of the finest eye surgeons in America Prof.Dr. Emil Chynn
Mostafa R.
13:38 07 Oct 26
I will recommend park ave lasek because dr Emil chin is a perfectionist and knows what he’s doing your eyes are very important and delicate you need to go to the best
Gabriel P.
17:00 02 Oct 26
I had keratoconus and poor vision. After lasek and cross linking, I am seeing 20/25! Dr Chynn is a very dedicated man!
Albert
16:03 30 Sep 26
D.Chynn is best doctor ever
Mali P.
19:40 29 Sep 26
The best thing to do
Boonsong C.
21:52 28 Sep 26
This is a slightly unusual review; while I was not ever a patient at the Park Avenue LASEK facility, Dr. Chynn provided expert guidance for my ocular health in 2026.Let me explain. Back in 2000, I was one of the first patients at Sol Moscot Laser Vision, operating at 14th Street. Dr. Chynn became attached to that practice around that time.Being one of the first-ever NYC LASIK patients, I was absolutely THRILLED with my results. I enjoyed clear, brilliant vision for decades without glasses or contacts.Now, in 2026, like so many people getting on, I developed cataracts. One of the issues plaguing past LASIK patients needing cataract surgery is the lack of pre-operative records to ensure a satisfactory outcome.Remembering the IWant2020.com web address associated with Sol Moscot Laser Vision, I contacted Park Avenue LASEK (who inherited that domain name) to try and locate my old patient records of 2000. Naturally, they had been shredded as they were only kept on file for seven years. Although he did not remember me, Dr. Chynn personally e-mailed to follow up on my initial enquiry regarding my old records, and provided sound advice on moving forward without them.Dr. Chynn demonstrates commitment and a clear passion regarding eye concerns; his prompt expert advice shaped my cataract treatment plan, and I am now enjoying a fine result, post-cataract surgery. His personal outreach, and demonstration of care, is exemplary. Thank you so much, Dr. Chynn.
With Thanks, from L.
13:00 26 Sep 26
Convenient location, near transit hub. Had a good consultation and was made feel comfortable about the procedure. Staff was friendly.
isbelia57
14:49 23 Sep 26
It was a great experience, I had ortho k for 10 years and the surgery itself was seamless and not painful at all. Highly recommend!
Claire H.
15:59 18 Sep 26
Doc is a nice guy and helped me out
Kai
01:10 14 Sep 26
Dr Chynn was great, thank you for the orb scan!
Lorenzo L.
19:39 09 Sep 26
Dr Chubb has been amazing in treating my dry eyes and myopia! His staff are awesome and I’m so happy highly recommend
Johanna R.
17:34 03 Sep 26
Dr chynn showed me how he can get rid of my readers by just lasering my left eye and not my right eye, which would also be half price, and I would be less nervous. And my recovery would be quicker. He will also accept medical insurance as partial payment:)
Annie M G.
23:07 19 Aug 26
I had an amazing experience at Park Avenue LASEK. The entire staff was incredibly friendly, professional, and helpful throughout the whole process. They made me feel comfortable and answered all of my questions before and after the procedure.The surgery itself was surprisingly quick and easy, and the entire experience was much smoother than I expected. Most importantly, my vision is amazing, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I’m extremely grateful to the entire team at Park Avenue LASEK and would highly recommend them to anyone considering vision correction!
Paarth P.
02:05 14 Aug 26
Dr Chynn is a nice guy and helped me out
Mikhail P.
19:56 11 Aug 26
I went to Park ave Lasek for a consultation, Dr chynn diagnosed me with Keratoconus. He was able to do cross linking and Lasek procedure now I can see 20/20.
Alvin W.
14:31 10 Aug 26
Enjoying my result! Seeing better than glasses and contact. I have not used them since my surgery
Gisellys (.
18:27 06 Aug 26
Before LASEK, my precription was -3.75 in both eyes. After my surgery, my vision improved so much! Im seeing 20/20. LASEK is safer, non-cutting. No dry eyes, no halos, no night glare, no flap.
Milena Patricia Pájaro U.
15:57 05 Aug 26
Dr Chynn was a nice guy and helped me out
David A.
19:31 03 Aug 26
He was a nice guy and did me a solid
alex H.
17:36 03 Aug 26
I’m happy! Cool
DJOMANA B.
17:14 03 Aug 26
He was very nice
Parent Association of PS 1.
20:31 02 Aug 26
Amazing staff and Dr Chynn is the most experienced eye doctor when it comes to LASEK, one month later now I see 20/15 vision, I highly suggest everyone going to see him for the free consultation.
David R.
19:38 27 Jul 26
Hi. My name is Telina Shows. I would like to say that Park Avenue Lasek was very nice and had great customer service. Thank you for your service.
Telina S.
16:10 24 Jul 26
It's been two months since my epiLASEK surgery with Dr. Chynn and I'm really happy with the results: better than 20/20 vision and my close up screen vision is still perfect.I had a straightforward case of myopia (-1.5) and I can now go cycling in the rain, see how truly dirty my shower is, and I never have to shop for glasses again.I'm a software engineer so I was a little worried that improving my distance vision would come at the cost of my close up vision. But my vision when I'm staring at a screen all day has remained perfect. I was also worried about the possibility of dry eye, and only experienced it briefly for the first few weeks after the surgery.I got the comfort package so I was very relaxed during the procedure. The surgery itself is actually no big deal. I had to look at a flashing light for 10 seconds in one eye and 15 in the other. If you can follow instructions diligently, you'll get a great outcome.I'm the type of person who does extensive research before buying anything expensive. In my view, the vacuum-assisted epiLASEK surgery that Dr. Chynn offers is simply superior, and worth the extra cost. The trade off compared to regular LASIK seems to be recovery time; for me, the cost of keeping my eyes closed a few extra days during recovery is worth having the best vision I can get for many years to come.What's nice is the price transparency and I like that there are several options to help reduce the cost. You can go on the website and download the pricing form to see exactly how the cost of your surgery will be calculated. Pricing feels very fair, unlike most LASIK places.I admire that Dr. Chynn does things his own way and is focused on the very best outcomes for patients. I feel fortunate to have found Park Avenue LASEK. In particular, I appreciate the clear and detailed aftercare instructions, cautious follow-up exams, and systematic regimens to minimize side effects like MGD.Dr. D., Constantin, and Britney have been handling my follow up appointments and they have been great. It's been really satisfying to see my vision improve with every visit. 10/10
M P.
19:27 20 Jul 26
He is a nice guy and helped me out a lot:)
William C.
20:43 17 Jul 26
Dr Chynn was very nice and helped me out for free
Sadik D.
18:30 14 Jul 26
I had an extreme prescription before getting LASEK surgery and it improved not even a week after surgery. LASEK is a safer, no cutting. No dry eyes, no halos, no night glare. You should choose Dr Chynn and Park Avenue Lasek for your laser eye surgery
MARY M.
19:15 01 Jul 26
Very professional staff and very clean office. I’m so happy with the results of my surgery. I can read!!!! I highly recommend Dr. Chynn
dayan S.
17:24 24 Jun 26
I had an extreme prescription, unable to receive LASIK treatment. Dr. Chynn was the only doctor in the tri-state area able to treat my type of condition.
Gisellys A.
16:04 24 Jun 26
Great place! I came in for a free LASEK consultation today and they did a great job. They measured my vision and checked the thickness of my cornea to check for any underlying issues. Highly recommend
Sahil M.
17:59 15 Jun 26
Helpful experience and had amazing advice 10/10
Stanley R.
21:44 10 Jun 26
I have nystagmus and no other doctor could help me. Dr Chynn helped me. my vision is so much better after getting Lasek without glasses or contacts. very happy, highly recommend
Mirlinda M.
18:31 04 Jun 26
Zohaib F.
22:24 03 Jun 26
Really nice friendly understanding not complicatedWent everywhere to try to get diagnose he was the only one that could doNow I know ! Appreciate it
Ambrosia
17:59 03 Jun 26
Thanks for the topographic scan
Noreen Ahsan D.
21:26 12 May 26
I decided to leave a review because I saw a few people saying "fake 5 stars reviews" and I am too grateful to let that slide. I had my surgery 11 years ago, June or July of 2015. I still have great vision and no complaints about surgery. This surgery was the best decision I've ever made.
Vielka J.
13:57 11 May 26
jacee j
15:30 07 May 26
I appreciated getting an orb scan and looking at options for someone with thin corneas.
Timothy M.
18:22 06 May 26
Great place wonderful experience
Derrell B.
14:34 05 May 26
Excited for my consult today for noncutting lasek since they said i have thin corneas at another center. I appreciate them being thorough and giving me a complimentary orbscan
Sahil K.
18:07 22 Apr 26
Nancy P
21:18 09 Apr 26
Contact
Have Questions? Call our Office! (212) 741-8628
Get Directions to Park Avenue LASEK
102 E 25th St, New York, NY 10010