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Travel-Friendly Vision Solutions: ICL or Laser Surgery
Author
Ms Laura de Benito-Llopis
Meet the AuthorSpecialist areas: Laser Vision Correction, Lens Replacement Surgery, Implantable Collamer Lens, Cataracts, Corneal Transplant, Keratoconus Surgery, Pterygium Surgery
09 Jul 2025
ICL vs Laser Surgery: Which Is Best for Travel Lovers?
Both procedures offer long-term visual freedom, but they’re not interchangeable. Your travel habits, eye health, and vision goals will determine which solution suits you best. In this blog, we explore the pros, considerations, and travel-specific benefits of each.
What Is ICL and How Does It Work?
ICL stands for Implantable Collamer Lens. It’s a small, artificial and biocompatible lens implanted between your natural lens and iris. Unlike laser surgery, which reshapes your cornea, ICL is an additive procedure, the lens is inserted without removing any tissue.
It’s a popular option for people with high prescriptions, dry eyes, or thin corneas who may not be suitable for laser treatment.
What Does Laser Eye Surgery Involve?
Laser eye surgery involves reshaping the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina. There are two main types: LASIK and LASEK, and both have been used for decades with proven safety and effectiveness.
OCL Vision also offers SmartSight. An advanced version of Smile that is a minimally invasive approach using the Schwind ATOS femtosecond laser. This type of laser eye surgery offers quick recovery and minimal downtime, making it increasingly popular with professionals.
Laser procedures are typically quick, with short recovery times, and suit people with mild to moderate prescriptions who want rapid results.
ICL or Laser Surgery: A Comparison for Travellers
When choosing between ICL or laser surgery, think beyond vision correction. Frequent travellers need reliability, convenience, and minimal downtime. Here's how the two compare in a travel-focused context:
1. Travel Readiness and Recovery Time
- Laser Surgery: Most patients return to light activities, including travel, within 24 to 48 hours. However, swimming and dusty environments should be avoided for up to two weeks.
- ICL: Recovery is slightly longer, typically 3 to 5 days before returning to normal activities. The advantage is that vision quality is often exceptionally sharp, even in low light.
Laser may suit spontaneous travellers needing fast recovery, while ICL offers long-term results for those who can plan a few extra rest days.
2. Suitability Based on Eye Health
- Laser Surgery: Requires good corneal thickness and healthy eyes. Not always suitable for very high prescriptions or severe dry eyes.
- ICL: Often recommended for patients unsuitable for laser procedures. The lens doesn’t alter your cornea, preserving its structure. If laser isn’t recommended, ICL provides a safe, proven alternative with excellent results, ideal for those with specific clinical considerations.
3. Vision Stability Across Environments
- Laser Surgery: Some patients may experience dry eyes post-procedure, especially in dry or air-conditioned climates, common in planes and hotels.
- ICL: Whilst patients will still experience dry eyes, this tends to be less than Laser Surgery, and visual clarity remains strong across various conditions, including bright sun and low light.
For globe-trotters travelling to different climates, ICL can offer more consistent comfort.
4. UV Protection and Long-Term Eye Health
- Laser Surgery: Offers permanent correction but doesn’t provide additional protection against environmental exposure.
- ICL: The lens material includes built-in UV protection, which is especially helpful for those spending time outdoors, on beaches, or in sunny destinations. OCL Vision still recommends using UV ray blocking sunglasses.
ICL has the edge for those who value extra protection while enjoying the sun.
For more information on why you should choose OCL Vision, please visit here.
ICL vs Laser Surgery: Cost and Convenience
While laser surgery is often perceived as more affordable upfront, the long-term value of ICL vs laser surgery depends on your vision needs. ICL may involve a higher initial investment but can offer enhanced visual outcomes and peace of mind, particularly for those with more complex prescriptions.
At OCL Vision, we offer both procedures alongside clear, transparent pricing and flexible finance plans, making it easier to invest in your vision without delay. Take advantage of finance plans with up to 60 months and 0% interest across 24 months.
Travelling with Confidence: Patient Stories
Many patients who’ve undergone either ICL or laser surgery report the freedom of travelling without glasses, contact lenses, or eye drops. Whether it’s swimming with your children, sightseeing without steamed-up lenses, or avoiding the hassle of packing lens solution, the benefits are tangible.
ICL patients often share that they feel their vision is sharper, even in evening settings like airport lounges or late-night flights. Laser patients, meanwhile, enjoy the speed and simplicity of their recovery, making it a great choice for last-minute travellers.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between ICL vs laser surgery ultimately comes down to:
- Your prescription strength
- Corneal health
- Travel lifestyle
- Personal preferences
- Budget and long-term goals
At OCL Vision, our experienced consultants will assess your eye health, discuss your lifestyle and answer any questions you have. We believe informed decisions lead to the best outcomes.
Book Your Consultation with OCL Vision
If you’re considering vision correction and want the freedom to travel with ease, book a consultation with OCL Vision. We’ll guide you through the differences between ICL vs laser surgery, helping you make the right choice for your eyes, your lifestyle, and your future adventures.
Whether you’re planning a beach holiday, a skiing trip, or just tired of packing glasses or contact lenses, discover how OCL Vision can help you see the world clearly, wherever life takes you.
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