What Is EVO ICL Surgery and Am I a Good Candidate?

You’re most likely very familiar with temporary and disposable contact lenses — either you wear them, have worn them in the past, or know someone who wears them. These lenses come in contact with your eye, hence the name, to correct your vision. But have you heard of EVO Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO ICL)? Similar to regular contacts, ICLs are often called an implantable contact lens, but this lens does not come in contact with your eye. Approved by the FDA in 2005, the EVO Implantable Collamer Lens treats moderate to high levels of nearsightedness and astigmatism.

Am I a Good Candidate for EVO ICL Surgery?

Several factors may make you a great EVO ICL candidate:

• You have moderate to severe nearsightedness, all the way up to -20.0
• You have corneal thickness or mapping not adequate for LASIK or PRK
• You are a patient under 45 years old — EVO ICL is not FDA approved for patients over the age of 45
• You are predisposed to dry eye

Who Should NOT Get EVO ICL Surgery?

• EVO ICL surgery may not be the best option if you are over 45. Beyond that age, you should consider other options such as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
• You are farsighted
• You have mild nearsightedness

Benefits of EVO ICL Surgery

EVO ICL surgery offers several advantages, including:

• Permanent procedure, yet removable if necessary
• Sharp, clear vision with 99% patient satisfaction
• 45- to 60-minute outpatient procedure performed in our office
• Biocompatible lens with UV protection
• Does not induce dry eye syndrome
• Does not alter the shape of your cornea
• Less chance of glare and halos

Considerations When Determining the Best Vision Correction Procedure for You

Be sure you are with a reputable experienced vision correction surgeon who offers and can explain all of your options; LASIK, PRK, EVO ICL, and RLE. It is your eye and vision — make the choice you and your surgeon think is best for you. All procedures have different costs. Make sure you have all pricing in writing and consider the return on your investment (ROI). You should also understand each procedure’s side effects and longevity — the long-term health of your eyes is always our top priority.