EVO ICL and Clear Lens Exchange

EVO ICL is an implantable contact lens. It is placed inside the eye, in front of your natural lens and behind the iris, to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, it does not remove any corneal tissue, and it is designed to stay in place long term but can be removed if needed.

Who is EVO ICL for?

• Adults roughly 21 to 45 with stable nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism
• High prescriptions that are outside the best range for LASIK
• Thin or irregular corneas
• Dry eye, since EVO ICL does not cut corneal nerves

The procedure

The lens is folded and placed through a tiny incision with numbing drops and light sedation. Each eye takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Most patients notice clearer vision the next day and return to work within a few days.

Benefits and risks

Patients often describe sharp, high definition vision, and the lens blocks UV light. As with any eye surgery, there are risks, including infection, pressure rise and the very small chance of an early cataract. We review these with you in detail at your consultation.

Clear lens exchange

After about age 45, the natural lens starts to stiffen and many people need readers. For these patients, clear lens exchange, also called refractive lens exchange, can be a better choice than EVO ICL. The natural lens is replaced with an advanced lens implant, the same lenses used in premium cataract surgery. It can reduce dependence on glasses for distance and reading, and you will never develop a cataract in that eye.

Clear lens exchange is best for adults over about 45 who want less dependence on glasses and are not ideal LASIK candidates.

Cost

EVO ICL and clear lens exchange are elective procedures that insurance does not cover. We give you a written quote at your consultation. See surgery costs and insurance.

Common questions

Is EVO ICL better than LASIK?

Neither is best for everyone. LASIK works very well for mild to moderate prescriptions with healthy corneas. EVO ICL is often better for high prescriptions, thin corneas or dry eyes. Your consultation measurements tell us which fits you.

Can I feel the lens?

No. The lens sits inside the eye, so you cannot feel it and there is nothing to clean or replace.

Is it permanent?

EVO ICL is meant to stay in place long term, but a surgeon can remove or exchange it if your needs change.

How long is recovery?

Most people see well the next day, return to work in a few days and avoid swimming and eye rubbing for a couple of weeks.