How can I add an md-icon next to an input like in angular material 1?

How can I add md-icon elements next to inputs like in angular material 1 and this screenshot from google contacts:

Google contacts edit form

I know I can use mdPrefix but I like this style better.

Code example:

<md-input-container>
<md-icon mdPrefix>star</md-icon>
<input placeholder="Test" mdInput />
</md-input-container>

The icon inside the input field and I'd like it to be next to it: