EVO ICL: A Reversible, Minimally Invasive Alternative to LASIK

If you’re looking for lasting vision correction without altering your cornea, EVO ICL may be the solution. EVO ICL (Enhanced Vision Implantable Collamer Lens) is a minimally invasive procedure that places a soft, biocompatible lens inside the eye to correct common vision issues such as nearsightedness and astigmatism.

At Milan Eye Center, our experienced eye doctors use advanced technology and provide personalized care to ensure your comfort, safety, and the best possible visual results. Schedule a consultation today to begin your comprehensive eye evaluation.

Why Choose Milan Eye Center for an ICL Procedure

At Milan Eye Center, our board-certified ophthalmologists, including fellowship-trained cornea and refractive surgeons, provide personalized vision care using advanced technology. Because we perform LASIK, PRK, RLE, and EVO ICL, our team can recommend the option that best fits you, your eyes, lifestyle, and goals.

With eight convenient locations across the greater Atlanta area, you can receive comprehensive eye care close to home. We are committed to your comfort, safety, and best possible vision from your first consultation through every stage of care.

What is ICL?

The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL), also known as EVO ICL, is a small, flexible lens placed inside the eye to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. ICL delivers clear, sharp vision without removing corneal tissue, making it an ideal option for people who are not candidates for LASIK or PRK due to thin or irregular corneas.

 

What to Expect from the ICL Procedure

EVO ICL procedure stages overview

Before Surgery

Before the procedure, your ophthalmologist performs a full eye evaluation to measure your prescription, corneal thickness, and other key details. These tests help determine the ideal lens size, guide your surgical plan, and ensure you fully understand what to expect.

During Surgery

The EVO ICL is made from a soft, body-friendly material that works naturally with your eye. The procedure is virtually painless with numbing drops and typically takes about 20-30 minutes. Most patients notice clearer vision almost immediately and recover quickly.

After Surgery

Most patients see improvements within 24 hours, and the eyes continue to heal over the next week. Follow-up visits help monitor recovery and confirm that the lens remains properly positioned. You may notice mild glare, halos, or light sensitivity at first, but these temporary effects fade as your eyes adjust.

Benefits vs. Risks of the ICL Procedure

Introduced over 20 years ago, ICL has been used to improve vision in more than two million eyes worldwide with patient satisfaction rates above 99%. However, while EVO ICL surgery has a strong record of safety and satisfaction, no vision correction procedure is entirely without risk.

A black man smiling and playing soccer with his son after having ICL.

Benefits of EVO ICL

Key benefits include:

  • Provides clear, sharp vision, even in low light
  • 20-30 minute procedure with quick recovery time
  • Can be removed by your doctor if needed
  • Never needs to be replaced unless your vision changes
  • Offers built-in UV protection
  • Treats nearsightedness with or without astigmatism

A man considering the risks of getting an ICL.

Considerations and Risks

Potential considerations include:

  • Higher upfront cost (it’s typically not covered by insurance)
  • Temporary glare, halos, or light sensitivity during the adjustment period
  • Not designed to correct farsightedness (hyperopia)
  • Requires periodic long-term checkups to monitor results
  • Rare complications such as infection, cataract formation, glaucoma, or increased eye pressure
lasik-vs-icl

LASIK vs. ICL

When deciding between LASIK and EVO ICL, the main difference is how each procedure corrects vision. Both are safe, proven options, but they work in completely different ways.

LASIK uses a precision laser to reshape the cornea and improve how light focuses on the retina. The procedure is quick and provides excellent results for many prescriptions. However, it depends on corneal thickness, so it may not be suitable for people with thin or irregular corneas or chronic dry eyes. LASIK is permanent because it removes a small amount of corneal tissue.

EVO ICL, on the other hand, corrects vision by adding a soft, flexible lens inside the eye rather than reshaping the cornea. Since the cornea remains untouched, EVO ICL is often recommended for patients with higher prescriptions, thinner corneas, or dry eyes. The lens is invisible and provides a reversible alternative to LASIK for those who want flexibility in the future.

If you’re comparing LASIK vs. ICL, our doctors can help you determine which option fits your vision, eye health, and long-term goals.

Am I a Candidate for ICL Surgery?

ICLs are a good option for people with myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, especially those who have been told they are not candidates for laser procedures such as LASIK or PRK due to high prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eyes.

Good candidates may include:

  • Are between the ages of 21 and 45
  • Have myopia (nearsightedness) with or without astigmatism
  • Are not candidates for LASIK (have dry eyes, severe myopia, or a thin cornea)

You may not qualify if:

  • You are pregnant or nursing
  • You have uncontrolled glaucoma, cataracts, or certain eye diseases
  • Your vision prescription is still changing

A comprehensive evaluation is the best way to determine if EVO ICL is right for you. At Milan Eye Center, our experienced eye doctors will assess your vision, eye health, and goals to recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to explore EVO ICL surgery? Have questions or concerns? Review our FAQ section to find answers before your consultation.

What Is the Cost of the ICL Procedure?
Depending on your individual prescription and eye care needs, the average cost of ICL surgery can range from $6,000 to $7,500 per eye. The type of ICL, post-operative care, center fees, and the surgeon’s experience can affect the final price. Please consult our ophthalmologist for a transparent, all-inclusive estimate.
Does Insurance Cover ICL Surgery?
No. ICL surgery is an elective or cosmetic procedure, which disqualifies it for insurance coverage. Select vision discount plans might cover partial costs. HFD/FSA/HSA can also help cover some expenses.
Is ICL Surgery Painful?
The procedure is performed with anesthetic eye drops or sedation as needed. Patients report little to no discomfort during or after the surgery.
What Are the Risks of ICL Surgery?
Side effects of ICL surgery are rare, but potential risks include increased eye pressure, cataract formation, infection, or lens displacement. Regular follow-ups can minimize these risks.
How Long Does an ICL Last?
Implantable contact lenses are designed to remain in place indefinitely. If your vision changes over time, your ICL can be removed or replaced to achieve better results.
What Does Recovery Look Like?
You can experience improved vision within the first 24-48 hours. Complete stabilization can occur in about a month. Restrictions apply for a brief period, and you may return to your normal routine within days.
Will I Still Need Glasses?
Generally, no you will not still need glasses. Your eyes will still continue to age and change over time. Some patients report needing reading glasses later in life, especially if they develop farsightedness, which the lens does not correct.

It’s the right time for clearer vision

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