Vision is more than just seeing clearly – it’s about experiencing life without limitations. If you’re struggling with nearsightedness or astigmatism, daily life might feel like stumbling through a constant fog of blurred edges and missed experiences. But, what if there was a way to break free? Enter EVO ICL, a groundbreaking vision correction treatment that offers a safe and effective path to clear vision for those tired of the endless compromise of traditional eyewear.
What Is EVO ICL? Reversible Vision Correction
The Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO ICL) is an advanced alternative to traditional LASIK surgery. FDA-approved in March 2022, this treatment implants a soft, flexible, biocompatible phakic intraocular lens between your natural lens and your iris to correct refractive errors. Where LASIK reshapes the cornea, EVO ICL helps redirect and focus light, providing you with sharper vision while leaving your eye’s structure intact. It also doesn’t contribute to dry eyes and provides excellent night vision.
How Does The EVO ICL Treatment Work?
As an outpatient procedure, EVO ICL is minimally invasive and the entire process typically takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Here’s what to expect:
- The first step in getting your EVO ICL is setting up a consultation with a LASIK surgeon in your area to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the treatment. You’ll undergo a thorough eye examination which looks at your ocular history, visual acuity, corneal thickness, and overall eye health.
- On the day of treatment, you’ll get numbing eye drops applied to the eye to ensure a painless experience.
- The folded EVO ICL is inserted through a micro-incision at the base of your cornea. It’s then unfolded and positioned between the iris and your eye’s natural lens. To onlookers it will be invisible – including you.
- Slight adjustments may be needed to achieve optimal alignment with your eye’s natural lens.
After the procedure, most patients experience minimal downtime, often returning to normal activities within 1-2 days.
7 Key Features & Benefits of EVO ICL Technology
1. Biocompatible. The implant is made from Collamer, a collagen-based material that’s over 99% biocompatible with the eye. This allows the lens to remain in your eye for an extended period without adverse reactions.
2. Short Outpatient Procedure. The procedure takes about 20-30 minutes or less, and being minimally invasive means you’ll go home same-day.
3. Breathable Design. The latest, V5 model features the KS-Aquaport – a tiny, central hole measuring 0.36 mm wide. This design:
- Allows natural fluid flow through the eye.
- Eliminates the need for additional procedures.
- Helps maintain healthy intraocular pressure, reducing the risk of complications, such as cataract formation.
4. Reversible. EVO ICL is easily replaced or removed as your vision changes.
5. UV Protection. Collamer provides built-in UV protection, shielding your eyes from harsh sunlight.
6. Wide Corrective Range. Nearsightedness can be corrected from -0.5 to -20 and astigmatism from +0.5 to +6 diopters.
7. Excellent Long-Term Results. The EVO ICL provides long-lasting correction without maintenance, with 99% of patients in clinical studies achieving 20/40 vision or better, and 90% reaching 20/20 vision or better.
What Is The Cost of EVO ICL and Can I Finance It?
On average, the EVO ICL costs between $3,000-$5,000/eye. While a significant upfront investment, clinics often accept CareCredit, in-house payment plans, or accounts like Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)/Health Savings Accounts (HSA), to make this life-changing procedure accessible.
Is EVO ICL Right for You?
EVO ICL is a highly effective vision correction option, but that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everyone. Key points to consider:
- Suitability. Patients between 21-45 with a stable prescription, moderate to severe myopia or astigmatism, thin corneas, or dry eyes will benefit the most.
- Complications. The risks are low, but infection, inflammation, or lens dislocation are still possible.
- After Care. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions after your procedure. It’ll include things like avoiding rubbing your eyes, strenuous activities and swimming, using prescribed eye drops, and attending follow-ups.
Find An EVO ICL Surgeon Near You
You deserve to break free from poor vision and traditional eyewear. Locate a qualified surgeon in your area using our national directory of top LASIK and EVO ICL specialists across the United States. Your journey to crystal-clear vision starts with us at Best LASIK Surgeons; get started with a consultation or visit our Patient Resources Education Center for more information on vision correction procedures.