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How much does ICL surgery cost in Canada? Pricing, financing & what affects the cost
Market estimates for ICL surgery in Canada typically range from $4,090 to $4,790 CAD per eye, or about $8,000 to $10,000 for both eyes (as of October 2026). These are indicative figures and your personalized quote is confirmed after an eye exam and consultation.
To understand how Implantable Collamer Lenses work, see our complete guide to ICL benefits and what to expect.
What is ICL surgery?
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery places a thin, flexible lens inside the eye, between the iris and your natural lens, without reshaping the cornea or removing tissue.
- ICL: a biocompatible lens made from collamer (custom-made for each eye)
- LASIK: a laser procedure that reshapes the cornea
- Key difference: LASIK reshapes the cornea, while ICL inserts a lens behind the iris.
ICL is often considered by people with moderate to high nearsightedness or thin corneas. Your surgeon will assess whether ICL, LASIK or another option suits your eyes, including if you have dry eye.
Find out if you’re a candidate
How does ICL surgery work?
The procedure is quick and done under numbing drops, usually 15-30 minutes per eye.
- Preparation: your eyes are numbed and dilated.
- Lens insertion: the surgeon makes a tiny incision and slides the folded lens into place.
- Positioning: the lens unfolds behind the iris. No stitches are needed in most cases.
Most patients go home the same day. Recovery varies from person to person, so your surgeon will explain what to expect for your vision and follow-up visits.
How much does ICL surgery cost in Canada?
Prices vary by clinic, surgeon experience and lens type. The figures below are indicative market estimates in Canadian dollars as of October 2026:
LASIK Location | Indicative market estimate per eye |
|---|---|
$4,090 | |
$4,500 | |
$4,750 | |
$4,750 | |
$4,690 | |
$5,150 |
Source: These indicative LASIK MD pricing are estimates gathered from LASIK MD's internal data.
What affects the cost of ICL surgery?
- Lens type: toric lenses for astigmatism cost more than standard lenses.
- Prescription: higher or more complex prescriptions can raise the price.
- Surgeon experience: highly experienced surgeons often charge more, and it is worth it.
- Technology and facility: advanced diagnostics and surgical-grade facilities add to the cost.
- What is included: pre-op testing, the surgery, post-op drops and follow-up visits. Confirm what is bundled in.
- Location: prices differ between cities and provinces.
Is ICL more expensive than LASIK?
Typically, yes. Because ICL uses a custom-made implanted lens, it usually costs more per eye than LASIK. Cost is only one factor. If you are eligible for both, your surgeon can help you compare ICL and LASIK based on your eyes, vision goals and lifestyle.
What financing options exist for ICL surgery in Canada?
Provincial health plans, including OHIP and RAMQ, generally do not cover ICL, which is typically considered an elective procedure. You still have ways to manage the cost:
- Financing plans: third-party financing may be available, subject to approval and terms. Ask your clinic which options are currently offered
- HSA or health spending account: coverage depends on your plan's terms, so check with your plan administrator
- Medical expense tax credit (METC): some medical expenses may qualify for federal and provincial tax credits, depending on current rules. Confirm eligibility with your accountant or the relevant tax authority
- Employer or private benefits: check whether your plan offers any partial reimbursement
Ask your LASIK MD clinic about current financing options during your consultation.
What are the risks of ICL surgery?
ICL is an intraocular surgery, so it carries surgical risks. Your surgeon will explain the possible complications, including serious ones, and how likely they are in your case.
- Raised eye pressure
- Cataract formation
- Infection or inflammation
- Lens position or sizing issues: may need adjustment or exchange
- Night glare or halos
Your surgeon will review your personal risk profile at your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for ICL surgery?
- Stable prescription for at least one year
- Moderate-to-high nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism
- Sufficient space inside the eye for the lens
- No serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or active disease
If you are not sure which option suits you, a consultation will compare your options based on your eyes.
Ready to see what ICL could mean for you?
Talk with a specialist who can assess your eyes, answer your questions, and walk you through what to expect from consultation to recovery.
FAQ
How much does ICL surgery cost in Canada?
Market estimates range from about $4,090 to $4,790 per eye, or $8,000 to $10,000 for both eyes (as of October 2026), with toric lenses for astigmatism at the higher end. These are not LASIK MD rates. Your personalized quote is confirmed after an eye exam and consultation.
Is ICL more expensive than LASIK?
Typically, yes. ICL uses a custom-made implanted lens, so it usually costs more per eye than LASIK. If you are eligible for both, your surgeon can help you compare them.
Is ICL surgery covered by OHIP, RAMQ or private insurance?
Provincial plans generally do not cover ICL, which is typically considered elective. Coverage under private or employer plans varies, so check your policy.
Can I use my HSA or claim ICL on my taxes?
Possibly. Whether a health spending account covers ICL, and whether the cost qualifies for a tax credit, depends on your plan's terms and current tax rules. Confirm with your plan administrator or accountant.
Does the ICL price include follow-up visits?
It depends on the clinic. Ask whether pre-op testing, post-op drops and follow-up appointments are included in your quote.
Are there financing options for ICL surgery in Canada?
Financing may be available through third-party providers, subject to approval and terms. Ask your LASIK MD clinic which options are currently offered.
Is ICL surgery worth the cost?
It depends on your eyes, your prescription and your vision goals. ICL does not reshape the cornea, and it can be an option when your prescription or eye measurements make other procedures less suitable. If you are eligible for both ICL and LASIK, a consultation will help you compare them, including cost.
Is ICL surgery permanent?
The lens is designed to stay in the eye long term and can be removed or replaced by a surgeon if needed. Presbyopia, the natural loss of near focus with age, can still develop later.
Author: Mina Mazumder, Content & Communications Specialist
Medical disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.