EVO ICL Vs LASIK: Compare Options For Nearsightedness Correction

Patients dealing with the refractive error myopia (nearsightedness) have a range of surgical options available to them. EVO ICL vs LASIK is a common comparison for those considering vision correction procedures.

EVO ICL surgery is a relatively new surgery targeted to patients hoping to correct myopia and enjoy freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

EVO ICL surgery offers an alternative to popular refractive surgeries such as LASIK. To better understand ICL and how it compares to more popular vision correction surgeries like LASIK, patients should know the processes, benefits, and effects of both vision correction procedures.

LASIK (laser assisted in situ keratomileusis) is the most popular refractive surgery on the market. The procedure dramatically improves vision and eliminates refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

During LASIK eye surgery, an eye doctor uses a laser to reshape the cornea and smooth irregularities on the eye's surface, correcting natural errors or flaws. They do this by creating a flap on the surface of the cornea. The corneal flap is then moved to the side to operate on the stroma—the deep layers of the cornea. Once the procedure is complete, the doctor will put the flap back in place.

The procedure itself is fast and effective. Most LASIK surgeries take 15 to 20 minutes to complete, and a patient can expect quick recovery time with noticeable improvements the same day.

Implantable collamer lens (ICL) is a newer alternative procedure to LASIK eye surgery. Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the corneal tissue, during ICL the eye doctor plants a corrective lens between the natural lens and the iris without removing any tissue. This makes it a reversible procedure.

During a typical ICL procedure, the eye doctor will make a small incision at the edge of the cornea. Following the incision, the doctor will insert a specialized collamer lens through the incision. Once inside, the lens unfolds and is placed in front of the natural lens.

ICL surgery typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes and provides immediate improvement in vision. Unlike LASIK, the corneal structure is left intact, and the lens can be removed or replaced in the future if necessary.

Both ICL and LASIK are refractive surgeries designed to correct myopia, improve vision, and give patients freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

The two procedures are reliable and fast; most patients can resume regular activity within a few days after the procedure.

The two surgeries are both considered safe. Patients can expect a smooth recovery with most side effects limited to dry eye, glare, poor night vision, and blurry or distorted vision during the healing process.

While ICL and LASIK share key similarities in the procedure and outcomes, they have a number of differences that patients must be aware of. Developing a greater understanding of what makes each procedure unique will help patients choose the best surgery for their eye care needs.

Both LASIK and ICL surgery correct nearsightedness, but different patients may be better suited to one of the two procedures.

LASIK is generally considered the optimal choice for patients with mild to moderate nearsightedness (up to -10.00 diopters). ICL may be better suited for patients with higher levels of myopia (up to -20.00 diopters).

LASIK is suitable for patients 18 and older who have had a stable prescription for at least a year, while the EVO ICL procedure is recommended to patients between 21–45 years old.

Patients with thin or regular corneas and a history of dry eye are not considered ideal candidates for LASIK surgery. As ICL is a reversible procedure, it is considered a safer option for patients with corneal issues, dry eye, and other pre-existing conditions.

While both LASIK and ICL eye surgery provide long-term relief from myopia, their mechanisms differ. The changes made to the cornea in LASIK are permanent. A patient’s vision may remain stable, but future vision changes such as aging may require new corrective measures.

During ICL the eye doctor places a lens in the eye without altering the natural structure of the eye. This means the procedure is reversible. If patients wish to remove or replace the lens as their vision changes later in life, they may do so.

Both LASIK and ICL eye surgery offer relatively short recovery times, but LASIK offers a slightly quicker recovery.

Following LASIK surgery, most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours, and full recovery within a few days. There may be some discomfort, dry eyes, or sensitivity to light during the healing process, but these typically subside quickly.

During ICL recovery patients will see almost immediate improvements following surgery. However, some patients’ eyes take longer to adjust. Full recovery usually occurs within a week.

While both surgeries are safe and reliable, each carries potential risks and complications. These risks vary for each surgery so patients should understand their health history to determine the best course of action.

As a LASIK procedure involves altering the flap near the cornea, patients with thin or sensitive corneas may not be ideal candidates for the procedure.

EVO ICL surgery carries potential risks including infection, cataract formation, and increased intraocular pressure which can lead to glaucoma. Risks for both surgeries are rare but should be taken into account. It is strongly recommended that patients discuss their medical histories with their eye doctors prior to each surgery.

Generally, ICL costs more than LASIK. Cost will vary depending on the patient’s location, but typical LASIK costs range from $2,000 to $3,000 per eye, making it less of a hassle and financial burden.

Many factors can contribute to the final cost of EVO ICL, but patients can expect to pay in the range of $3,000 to $5,000 per eye.

This higher cost is due to the advanced technology involved in the lens implantation—patients will often pay more to select EVO CL lenses.

Both ICL and LASIK provide reliable vision correction options to treat myopia and other refractive errors. The choice will ultimately come down to a patient’s preferences, lifestyle, and medical history.

Patients looking for a more affordable treatment for mild to moderate nearsightedness may prefer LASIK. The treatment may also be preferable to patients with thick, healthy corneas, who are comfortable with a more permanent change to their eyes.

Patients with thin corneas or more severe myopia may like ICL better than LASIK. This is especially true for patients looking for a reversible and more flexible surgery and are willing to pay more for treatment.

As with any eye care procedure, patients should consult with their eye doctor prior to surgery to work together to find the optimal choice for their eye care needs.