LASIK vs EVO ICL: Key differences, Recovery time, and who’s a good fit
EVO ICL vs LASIK: Which One Is Right for You?
When considering vision correction surgery, most people immediately think of LASIK. However, there is an exciting alternative: EVO ICL. If you’re exploring EVO ICL vs LASIK, this guide breaks down the key differences, recovery times, and helps you decide which procedure might be the better choice for your vision and lifestyle.
Our patients at Utah Valley Eye Center often ask us which option is right for them- here’s what you should know. hen considering vision correction surgery, most people immediately think of LASIK. However, for some patients, another advanced option might be more suitable: EVO ICL. While both procedures aim to free you from glasses and contact lenses, they do so in different ways, offering distinct benefits. In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between LASIK VS EVO ICL, to help you determine which procedure might fit your unique vision needs.
What is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted-In-Situ-Keratomileusis) is one of the most well known and widely performed vision correction procedures. During the LASIK procedure, your surgeon creates a thin flap in your cornea, then uses a laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. This corrects how light is focused on your retina, improving vision and reducing or eliminating your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Benefits of LASIK
- Fast recovery: Most patients experience significant vision improvement within 24 hours.
- Permanent results: LASIK provides permanent vision correction for the vast majority of patients.
- Proven success: LASIK has a strong safety record, with millions of successful procedures performed worldwide.
LASIK procedure recovery time
LASIK recovery is typically quick. Many patients return to work or daily activities within a few days. Temporary side effects, such as dry eyes, glare, or halos may occur as your eyes heal. These symptoms typically subside within a few weeks.
What is EVO ICL?
The EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a cutting-edge vision correction procedure ideal for patients with prescriptions higher than a -3.00 or who have been told that they are not a good LASIK candidate. The EVO ICL procedure involves placing a small, flexible lens in front of the eye’s natural lens, between the iris and the natural crystalline lens. This procedure corrects vision without removing corneal tissue.
Although the EVO ICL procedure was FDA-approved in the U.S. in 2022, the implantable collamer lens technology has been used safely worldwide for over 20 years. EVO is the latest generation, designed for even better safety and visual outcomes.
Learn more about EVO ICL from Staar Surgical
Benefits of EVO ICL
- No corneal alteration: The cornea remains untouched, preserving its natural shape and thickness.
- Reversible procedure: Unlike LASIK, the EVO ICL can be removed or replaced if necessary by your doctor.
- UV Protection: The EVO ICL lens includes built-in UV protection to help shield your eyes from harmful UV rays. However, for complete UV protection, it’s still advisable to wear sunglasses.
- Great for higher prescriptions: EVO ICL is especially effective for those with severe nearsightedness.
Comparing EVO ICL vs LASIK- Which one is right for you?
Who should consider EVO ICL over LASIK?
Both procedures offer fast recovery, but there are some differences worth noting:
LASIK procedure recovery time
- Most patients see major improvement within 24 hours.
- Vision stabilizes within a few weeks.
- Temporary side effects like dry eyes or halos can occur.
EVO ICL recovery time
- Many patients notice improvement within a day or two.
- Full recovery takes a few weeks, some temporary halos can be noticed.
- No dry eye issues since there is no removal or corneal tissue.
Who is a good candidate for EVO ICL?
Choosing between LASIK and EVO ICL depends on your eye health, vision needs, and personal preferences:
LASIK is great if you:
- Are 18 or older with stable vision
- Have healthy, thick corneas
- Experience mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
EVO ICL may be better if you:
- Have thin corneas that make LASIK risky.
- Struggle with dry eyes.
- Require a high level of correction beyond LASIK’s limits.
- Want a reversible vision correction procedure.
Who should consider EVO ICL over LASIK?
While LASIK is a fantastic option for many, it’s not suitable for everyone. EVO ICL may be a better choice if you:
- Have thin corneas that make LASIK risky.
- Suffer from dry eyes, as LASIK can exacerbate this condition.
- Require a high level of vision correction that LASIK may not fully address.
- Prefer a reversible option that allows for future adjustments.
Our team at Utah Valley Eye Center can help determine which option is right for your vision and lifestyle. Both Dr. Christensen and Dr. Gardiner are experienced LASIK surgeons who guide patients through their vision correction options. For those who may not be an ideal LASIK candidate, Dr. Gardiner also specializes in EVO ICL, offering additional solutions like the EVO ICL.
Future proof your vision with EVO ICL
One of the most appealing features of EVO ICL is its flexibility. Because the implantable collamer lens works with your natural eye structure and is removable, it opens up your vision correction options for the future. If your prescription changes or new technology emerges, your doctor can safely remove the lens- something LASIK can’t offer.
Both LASIK and EVO ICL are excellent, life-changing procedures that help reduce your dependency on glasses or contact lenses. The right choice comes down to your unique vision needs, eye anatomy, and long-term goals.
Our experienced vision correction team can help determine which option is right for you. If you’ve been told you’re not a LASIK candidate, EVO ICL might be the perfect fit.
Ready to learn which procedure is best for you? Schedule your free LASIK or EVO ICL consultation at Utah Valley Eye Center today!
Learn more about EVO ICL on our dedicated EVO ICL page.
