LASIK Eye Surgery

EVO ICL Lens

The EVO™ ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

EVO ICL Lenses - Implantable Collamer Lens - ICL Surgery DCFor some patients whose prescription is too high even for LASIK or PRK to correct, an implantable collamer lens may be an excellent option. EVO ICL is a refractive implant to correct common vision issues like myopia (nearsightedness) with or without astigmatism. Unlike some other vision correction options, the EVO ICL is an additive technology that corrects vision without the removal of any corneal tissue.

The ICL  is placed within the eye during a brief, outpatient surgical procedure providing excellent quality of vision for many patients who cannot safely have LASIK or other laser vision correction. Over the past few decades, over 2 million lenses have been implanted with 99% patient satisfaction. The EVO ICL is invisible to you and others and requires no maintenance.

ICLs are made from Collamer, a collagen copolymer. Collagen is the same naturally occurring substance present in the eye and in many other tissues of the human body. Collamer is very compatible with the eye’s natural environment and the lens contains an ultraviolet filter that provides protection to the eye.

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How do I know if I’m a good candidate for EVO ICL?

EVO ICL is well-suited for a wide variety of people. Ideal candidates for EVO ICL are:

  • Are between the ages of 21 and 45
  • Are nearsighted (-3D to –20D eyeglass prescription) with or without astigmatism
  • Have healthy eyes with no history of eye conditions such as glaucoma
  • Have not had a significant change in their eyeglass prescription of more than 0.5D in one year
  • Are not currently pregnant
  • Have no known allergies to medications used during the procedure
  • Are not good LASIK candidates because of severe nearsightedness, thin corneas, severe dry eyes, or for some other reason
  • Are seeking a solution to decrease or eliminate the cost and frustration of traditional contact lenses or glasses

What should I expect from the EVO ICL procedure?

Your eye doctor will create a small opening in your cornea that will be used to insert and position the EVO ICL in front of the natural lens of your eye. For most patients, the procedure is virtually painless with anesthetic eye drops and it typically takes less than 20-30 minutes.

Does ICL surgery hurt?

No. Your ophthalmologist will use anesthetic eye-drops before the procedure and may administer a light sedative as well.

What is recovery like after ICL surgery?

Most patients notice a dramatic improvement in their vision nearly immediately after their EVO ICL vision correction surgery. Recovery usually only takes a day or two, with little to no side effects. Many patients return to work as soon as the next day.

What if my vision changes after EVO ICL surgery?

One advantage of the EVO ICL is that it offers treatment flexibility. If your vision changes dramatically after receiving the implant, your doctor can remove and replace it. If necessary, another procedure can usually be performed at a later date to further correct your vision. Patients can wear glasses or contact lenses as needed following treatment with the ICL. The implant does not treat presbyopia (difficulty with reading in people 40 years and older), but you can use reading glasses as needed after the ICL has been implanted.

Is the EVO ICL visible to others?

No. The EVO ICL is positioned behind the iris (the colored part of the eye), where it is invisible to both you and others. Only your doctor will be able to tell that vision correction has taken place.

Can the EVO ICL be removed from my eye?

Although the EVO ICL is intended to remain in place permanently, a certified ophthalmologist can remove the implant if necessary.

Will I be able to feel the EVO ICL once it is in place?

The Visian ICL is designed to be completely unobtrusive after it is put in place. It stays in position by itself and does not generally interact with any of the eye’s structures.

Book your consultation

If you live in the Washington, DC area and are interested in learning more about the possibility of achieving sharp, clear vision without the hassles of contacts or glasses, schedule an appointment to learn if EVO ICL is right for you.

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