Are you tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses? If so, the EVO ICL might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
When considering vision correction options, LASIK isn’t your only choice. The EVO ICL provides a great alternative, especially for patients who don’t qualify for LASIK.
It’s also the only vision correction procedure that’s fully reversible, offering patients peace of mind and flexibility. So, how does the EVO ICL work, and what happens during the procedure?
Keep reading to learn more about what happens during the EVO ICL procedure and whether it could be your key to clearer vision!
What is the EVO ICL?
The EVO ICL stands for implantable collamer lens. This lens functions similarly to a contact lens but is implanted inside the eye rather than sitting on the surface.
It changes how light refracts through the eye, helping improve vision and correct refractive errors like nearsightedness and astigmatism. This can reduce or completely eliminate your need for visual aids like glasses and contacts.
What sets the EVO ICL apart from other vision correction procedures like LASIK is that it’s fully reversible, allowing patients to feel secure in their decision to alter their vision. While most patients are pleased with their new, high-definition vision, if you change your mind, you can schedule an appointment to have the EVO ICL removed by your ophthalmologist, restoring your vision to the way it was before.
The lens itself is made from collamer, a material similar to collagen, a protein naturally produced by your body. Because of its compatibility with your eye, the lens integrates seamlessly with your eye’s biology.
This biocompatibility helps ensure a smooth recovery with minimal discomfort. Once implanted, the EVO ICL feels so natural most patients forget it’s even there.
Who is a Good Candidate for EVO ICL?
To determine if you’re a good candidate for the EVO ICL procedure, you’ll need to attend a consultation with your eye doctor at The Omaha and Lincoln Eye and Laser Institute. This consultation is the first step toward deciding if the procedure is right for you and gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
The EVO ICL is ideal for patients who:
- Are nearsighted or have astigmatism
- Are between 21 and 45 years old
- Have had stable vision for one year or more
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Do not have eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts
- Have realistic expectations about what the EVO ICL can do for your vision
It’s also an excellent alternative for patients who are not good candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, dry eye, or severe nearsightedness. Since the EVO ICL does not require the creation of a corneal flap like LASIK does, it poses less of a risk with dry eye and thin corneas.
The procedure also has the ability to correct nearsightedness up to -20.00 diopters, which is stronger than what LASIK can correct.
How Do You Prepare for the EVO ICL Procedure?
Once your ophthalmologist confirms that you’re a candidate for the EVO ICL, you can schedule your procedure. The most important step for preparation before the procedure is to stop wearing contact lenses before the procedure.
The exact duration depends on the type of contacts you wear, so consult your ophthalmologist at The Omaha and Lincoln Eye and Laser Institute for specific instructions. On the day of the procedure, ensure you have a friend or family member available to drive you to and from the appointment.
You won’t be able to drive yourself until you are cleared by your eye doctor. You should also avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the day of the procedure to prevent any irritation.
Since the EVO ICL procedure doesn’t require general anesthesia, you can eat as usual and take any necessary medications. However, always check with your ophthalmologist beforehand to confirm exact instructions.
How Long Does the EVO ICL Procedure Take?
The EVO ICL procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes. Most of your time will be spent in the waiting area and recovery room, with the procedure itself being very brief.
The first step in the procedure is to administer eye drops that numb your eyes. This ensures that you won’t feel any discomfort during the process.
Your surgeon will then make a tiny incision along the edge of the cornea, fold the EVO ICL, and insert it through the incision. They will then unfold it and ensure it is carefully positioned over your natural lens.
The incision is small enough that it doesn’t require stitches and heals on its own. After a brief rest in the recovery room, your ophthalmologist will check your eyes to ensure everything is healing correctly.
Most patients can go home in less than an hour after their procedure.
When Can I Expect My Vision to Improve After the EVO ICL Procedure?
Vision improvement after the EVO ICL is often noticeable almost immediately. However, it’s normal for your vision to be slightly blurry in the first few days as your eyes begin to heal.
Many patients experience significant improvement within 24 hours, and as the healing process continues, your vision will keep improving. Your vision will stabilize once your eyes have fully healed.
The EVO ICL is a fantastic option for people who aren’t candidates for LASIK. With a high success rate and quick recovery time, the EVO ICL has transformed the lives of many people seeking visual freedom.
Ready to find out if the EVO ICL is right for you? Schedule an appointment at The Omaha and Lincoln Eye and Laser Institute in Omaha or Lincoln, NE!
