Thinking of ditching your glasses or contact lenses?

In the Philippines, advanced refractive surgeries are now available that can permanently correct poor vision. For years, LASIK has been the most well-known option, reshaping the cornea to improve eyesight. It’s familiar to many and often seen as the only solution.
But today, there’s a better option to consider: Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery. This newer, high-precision procedure is gaining attention for its safety, reversibility, and long-term stability without altering the natural structure of your eye.

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ICL Isn’t Just for People Who Can’t Get LASIK

A common misconception is that ICL is only for people who aren’t qualified for LASIK. While it’s true that ICL is ideal for individuals with high prescriptions or thin corneas, this perspective is limiting.
ICL is not just a fallback. It’s a premium solution for anyone seeking the best possible visual outcome. We often recommend ICL even for those with low to moderate myopia who technically qualify for LASIK. Here’s why:

• ICL is reversible. The lens can be removed or replaced. No permanent changes are made to your eye.
• Long-term stability. No corneal thinning, which reduces the risk of vision regression over time.
• Sharper vision. Many patients report higher quality, high-definition results.
• No dry eyes. Since no corneal nerves are damaged, there’s significantly less risk of post-surgical dryness.

In short, ICL isn’t a backup plan. It’s often the better plan.

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How LASIK Works

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed surgery that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. Here’s how it works:

• 1.A thin flap is created on the cornea’s surface.
• 2.A laser removes a small amount of corneal tissue underneath.
• 3.The flap is repositioned to heal naturally.

LASIK is fast and widely available in Philippine clinics. Most patients notice improved vision within 24 hours. However, because it permanently removes tissue, it comes with certain limitations:

• Permanent alteration of the cornea
• Risk of dry eyes
• Night glare or halos
• Irreversibility, which may limit future corrective options

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Side-by-Side Comparison: LASIK vs. ICL for Filipinos

Still unsure which procedure is right for you? We’ve prepared a detailed LASIK vs. ICL comparison to help you see the differences more clearly. From safety and recovery to long-term results and lifestyle fit, this table breaks down what every Filipino should know before choosing an eye surgery.
View the full comparison of ICL vs. LASIK here to find out which option suits your vision goals best.

Who Is ICL Best For?

You may be a better candidate for ICL if you:

• Have high myopia or astigmatism
• Have thin corneas
• Are prone to dry eyes
• Lead an active lifestyle (e.g., athletes)
• Prefer a reversible option with long-term stability
• Are considering LASIK but want a safer, lens-based alternative

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Cost and Accessibility in the Philippines

While LASIK is more widely known and often more affordable upfront, ICL offers greater long-term value, particularly for patients at risk of LASIK side effects.
According to a study published in the Philippine Journal of Ophthalmology, LASIK had the highest conversion rate among patients considering refractive surgery. In contrast, phakic IOL procedures like ICL had lower conversion rates, likely due to their higher initial cost.

At Eye Can Philippines Refractive & Aesthetics, ICL surgery starts at ₱39,000 per eye for patients with a prescription of 300 and below (without astigmatism).
We believe that vision correction should be accessible to more Filipinos. That’s why we offer flexible payment terms to suit your budget:

• Free eye screening (pre-surgery)
• 0% interest installment plans with partner banks (up to 24 months)
• Interest-free in-house pre-surgery payment plans

For a personalized quote or to learn more about your options, feel free to message us or visit our clinic.

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What to Ask Before Choosing a Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon is just as important as choosing the procedure. Ask these questions:

• Are they a certified ICL surgeon?
• What lens technology do they use?
• What does their aftercare program include?
• Are the risks explained clearly along with the benefits?

At Eye Can Philippines, all procedures are performed by Japanese-trained specialists using advanced equipment and personalized care plans.

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Making the Right Choice for Your Eyes

Both LASIK and ICL offer transformative results when it comes to vision correction. But if you’re looking for a reversible, safer, and longer-lasting solution, ICL may be the better choice, even if you’re eligible for LASIK.

Book your free screening today at Eye Can Philippines Refractive & Aesthetics and take the first step toward clearer, more confident vision.

References:

Ang, R. E. T., Camus, E. E., Rivera, M. C. R., Vizconde, D. C., Canilao, L. M. B., Valencia, N. Z. R., & Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology. (2015). Demographic and Clinical Profile of Patients who Underwent Refractive Surgery Screening. Philippine Journal of Ophthalmology, 64–71.

Ang, R. E. T., Tady, C. M. S., Valencia, N. Z. R., Canilao, L. M. B., Vizconde, D. C., Rivera, M. C. R., & Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology. (2015). A Five-Year review of refractive procedures, outcomes and complications. Philippine Journal of Ophthalmology, 40(2), 72-80.

LASIK eye surgery. (2025, July 16). Cleveland Clinic.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21805-lasik-eye-surgery

ICL. (2025, June 26). Eye Can Philippines.
https://www.eyecanphilippines.com/service/icl/