As we close 2025 and look ahead to 2026, it's been a transformative year for vision correction technology and patient outcomes. While social media and sensationalized headlines have sometimes painted a negative picture of refractive surgeries like LASIK, PRK, and EVO ICL, the reality is that millions of patients worldwide have successfully achieved clear vision with these proven procedures.
Keep reading to learn more about what’s changed in the past year for LASIK, PRK and EVO ICL.
LASIK remains the one of the most performed elective surgeries, with good reason. Recent advances in technology have made the procedure even more precise and predictable.
During LASIK, your surgeon uses advanced laser technology to:
The procedure corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, typically providing immediate visual improvement with minimal discomfort.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) addresses the same refractive errors as LASIK but uses a different approach that makes it ideal for certain patients.
The PRK procedure involves:
Many patients choose PRK over LASIK if they have thin corneas, active lifestyles, or chronic dry eyes. For some patients, PRK can be safer and more effective than LASIK.
This is why the candidacy screening process is so important and why eye doctors take their time to fully evaluate each patient to determine which procedure is best for each patient.
The EVO Implantable Collamer Lens represents one of the most significant advances in refractive surgery this decade. This innovative procedure offers vision correction for patients who may not be candidates for corneal procedures.
EVO ICL involves:
The EVO ICL can be a great option for patients with thin corneas, those with higher prescriptions or corneal irregularities. It is also fully reversible, which can be a unique benefit for patients who want that option.
In 2025, misinformation about vision correction procedures continues to circulate online, often overshadowing decades of proven success and technological advancement. Below are some of the most common fears refractive surgeons hear from prospective patients, and the evidence-based facts to counter the myths and misconceptions that may be preventing you from achieving the clear vision you deserve.
Social media amplifies negative experiences while countless positive outcomes go unshared. For every concerning story, there are thousands of successful procedures that simply don't make headlines. Current data shows that serious complications remain extremely rare when procedures are performed by qualified surgeons using modern technology.
LASIK has been performed safely for decades, with millions of successful procedures worldwide. PRK has an even longer track record, dating back to the late 1980s. EVO ICL, while newer, is based on decades of intraocular lens experience and has extensive clinical data supporting its safety and efficacy.
Modern pre-surgical screening is incredibly sophisticated.
Advanced corneal mapping, thorough health evaluations, and careful candidate selection have dramatically reduced the risk of unexpected outcomes. Most patients are able to experience vision superior to what they had with glasses or contacts.
Recovery experiences vary by procedure, but modern techniques have significantly improved healing times and comfort. LASIK patients typically return to normal activities within days, while PRK recovery takes longer but results in the same excellent visual outcomes. EVO ICL recovery is often the most comfortable of all.
The candidacy evaluation is one of the most critical aspects of successful vision correction surgery as it ensures optimal outcomes and patient safety.
Not every patient is a candidate for every procedure, and identifying the right match between patient and procedure is what separates excellent results from disappointing ones. Modern refractive surgery's exceptional safety record stems largely from rigorous pre-operative screening that has evolved significantly over the past decade. This thorough evaluation process is part of the reason why serious complications have become so rare.
Whether considering LASIK, PRK, or EVO ICL, ideal candidates typically:
The specific procedure recommended depends on individual factors, including corneal thickness, prescription strength, lifestyle requirements, and personal preferences.
The only way to determine if LASIK, PRK, or EVO ICL is right for you is through a comprehensive consultation with an experienced refractive surgeon. During this evaluation, your eye health, prescription, lifestyle, and visual goals will be thoroughly assessed to recommend the best approach for your unique situation.
At Providence Eye & Laser Specialists, our board-certified ophthalmologists combine decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional results. We believe in honest, transparent communication about all aspects of vision correction, ensuring you have the information needed to make the best decision for your eyes.
Ready to separate fact from fiction and explore your vision correction options? Schedule your consultation at Providence Eye & Laser Specialists in Charlotte, NC, today!
