Houston Laser Surgery – Intacs Intracorneal Ring (ICR)

The Intacs Intracorneal Ring Segment is a device used to stabilize and reshape the cornea. This technology has been approved by the FDA to correct nearsightedness and subsequently received compassionate use status to treat irregular corneal conditions such as keratoconus.

The overall goal of intracorneal ring segments is to provide stability and some reduction in prescription. It is not used for eliminating glasses or contact lenses completely, but the majority of people notice better fitting contacts and improved vision after the procedure.

When Intacs are used to treat a medical condition like an irregular cornea, some insurances will help cover the costs associated with the procedure. At Mattioli Vision Professionals, a Houston, TX vision correction center, we offer state-of-the-art surgical solutions to ensure you receive excellent eye care. With over 43,000 vision correction procedures under his belt, Dr. Mattioli has the expertise you need to see better and feel great. Schedule a free consultation today to see if Intacs Intracorneal Ring surgery is right for you.

 What Are The Benefits of Intacs Corneal Rings?

Intacs corneal rings placed by Dr. Mattioli, in addition to treating keratoconus and improving overall vision, have a number of great benefits, including:

  • Improving the fit of contacts
  • Improving functional vision
  • Reforming the cornea to a more natural shape
  • Reducing myopia and astigmatism
  • Can defer the need for a corneal transplant
  • Procedure is quick and minimally invasive
  • Recovery period is short
  • Procedure is safe and effective
  • Rings can be safely removed and replaced if needed

How Do Intacs Intracorneal Rings Work?

Before he begins, Dr. Mattioli will completely numb your eyes with anesthetic drops. There are no injections or scalpels, and the procedure only takes about 15 minutes to complete. A laser is used to create a tunnel within the cornea to match the size and curvature of the ring segment. The ring segments are then slid into place, like a finger into a glove. The segments act like braces to maintain the new shape.

 Am I A Candidate For Intacs Corneal Rings?

Ideal candidates for Intacs corneal rings include women and men who want to reduce or even eliminate their reliance on glasses or contacts and who:

  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Have no eye health or other health issues
  • Have a stable eye prescription for at least one year
  • Are nearsighted, or have keratoconus

 What Can I expect After Getting Intacs Corneal Rings?

After receiving your Intacs corneal rings, you should have someone drive you home. Most patients will want to rest and recover for a few days after their procedure. The first day after, many patients can experience sharper vision acuity. Patients with milder keratoconus may no longer need glasses or contacts for additional vision correction. More severe cases of keratoconus may still require vision correction.

 INTACS Corneal Ring FAQ

No, the procedure to place Intacs corneal rings doesn’t hurt. Before he begins, Dr. Mattioli will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops to keep you comfortable. Most patients report only feeling a slight pressure if they feel anything at all.

The procedure is performed as a quick outpatient procedure that only takes about 15 minutes.

Yes, they are. However, if your vision changes, Intacs rings can be safely removed, and new ones can be inserted to correct your vision.

Most patients will only need 24 – 48 hours after their procedure before returning to normal activities.

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Plan Your Procedure

Average Cost Per Pterygium  
From $3,500
Recovery Time  
1-2 days
How Long It Takes  
15 minutes
Follow Up Time  
1 day, 1week, and 1 month
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Improve your Eye Health

Intacs corneal rings are a great way to improve your vision and reduce your overall dependence on glasses or contacts. If you think you may be a candidate for this advanced treatment, contact Mattioli Vision Professionals to schedule a consultation. Dr. Fred Mattioli can review the details of the procedure and create a custom treatment plan in Houston, TX. Our goal is to help you achieve your best possible life free from the constraints of poor vision.


The content on this page has either authored or reviewed by Dr. Fred Mattioli.