Implantable Collamer Lenses

Implantable Collamer Lenses, also often referred to as implantable contact lenses or EVO Visian ICL, were introduced a few decades ago as an astounding leap forward in refractive surgery. For the first time, people with exceptionally high lens prescriptions (high myopia) and those who lacked sufficient corneal thickness to have LASIK could improve their vision more than ever before.

Today’s EVO ICL procedure has the revolutionary ability to deliver these results in less than half an hour. This minimally invasive procedure can help you achieve sharp, clear vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts. Over 1 million lenses have been implanted worldwide, making this fast-growing option a popular alternative to LASIK.

Contact our Rockville, MD, office for an eye exam and consultation today at (301) 591-1763. You can also contact us online for more information about our vision services.

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What Is EVO ICL?

Composed primarily of water and collagen, Collamer is entirely biocompatible and, therefore, a natural, comfortable lens material. The EVO ICL is implanted through a microscopic incision without altering the cornea. It is designed to remain in the eye permanently, but it can be removed at any time, providing patients with absolute flexibility if they change their mind or their vision changes.

Cheerful woman using laptop for televisit.

What Is the Difference Between LASIK & EVO ICL?

Both offer sharp and clear vision and are short outpatient procedures. Where they differ is primarily in the procedure itself. LASIK requires removing corneal tissue, while EVO ICL does not and treats thin corneas. EVO Visian ICL is fully removable, which many consider a significant advantage over LASIK since it allows you to make changes in the future. It also has the bonus of providing UV protection and better night vision than LASIK.

With the help of Visionary Eye Doctors in Rockville, MD, you can take the next step in protecting your vision, and your health, with routine eye examinations. Call us today at (301) 591-1763.

Am I a candidate for EVO ICL?

EVO Visian ICL can often correct the eyesight of those who can’t undergo LASIK because of thin corneas, dry eyes, or unusually high refractive errors.

If you fit the criteria below, you’re most likely a candidate for EVO ICL:

Between 21 and 45 years old
Nearsighted
No change in eyeglass prescription of more than 0.5D in a year
Not pregnant
Have thin corneas and dry eyes
Have low and high refractive errors (as low as -3D to as high as -20D prescription)

Advantages & Disadvantages of EVO ICL

The EVO Visian ICL procedure is lauded for its safety advantages over other options, though it does still carry downside risks to be aware of.

Advantages of EVO ICL include:

Treats a wide range of prescriptions
Minimally invasive
Soft and flexible material makes it easy to implant
Comfortable
Quick procedure and recovery times

Disadvantages of EVO ICL can include:

Overcorrection (nearsightedness not fully corrected)
Under-correction (nearsightedness corrected more than intended, resulting in farsightedness)
It brings on presbyopia (loss of close vision due to aging) sooner
Cataracts
Increased nighttime halos or starbursts in vision

What To Expect Before, During & After Your EVO ICL Procedure

If it’s determined that EVO ICL is the best option for you, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure:

One to Two Weeks Before

You’ll undergo a YAG laser iridotomy, during which your eye surgeon will use a YAG laser to make one or two small openings near the edge of the iris so the fluid can circulate the lens. You’ll receive anesthetic eyedrops to make the procedure comfortable. You’ll also use prescription eyedrops in the weeks before the EVO Visian ICL procedure.

EVO Visian ICL Procedure

Before surgery, you’ll be given topical anesthesia to minimize discomfort but may still experience pressure. You may be issued a sedative as well.

When you’re comfortable, your eye surgeon will create one or two small openings at the base of your cornea that will be used to position the lens. Then, a gel-like substance will be placed inside the eye to protect it during the lens placement.

After a small opening is made, the lens will be inserted. The lens will be folded up in a cartridge, and the cartridge will be placed through the incision. When the lens is inserted, it will gently unfold in the eye. After unfolding, the corners will be placed behind the iris, making the lens less visible.

Recovery

You’ll receive eyedrops to use for several days after the procedure to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation. You should arrange for transportation to get home because you won’t be able to drive immediately after the procedure. You’ll schedule a follow-up visit 24 hours after surgery for the surgeon to monitor the eye’s internal pressure and your progress.

Trust Your EVO ICL Procedure to Visionary Eye Doctors

Visionary Eye Doctors is proud to offer EVO Visian ICL procedures. With over 10 years of experience with ICL, our own Dr. J. Alberto Martinez continues to be at the forefront of this leading-edge technology.

The first step in determining your candidacy for any procedure is to schedule a consultation and comprehensive eye exam with one of our experienced surgeons. Utilizing advanced diagnostic technology, we will establish the best path for your long-term vision health.

Interested in learning more about EVO Visian ICL? Call our office today at (301) 591-1763 to schedule a consultation with our expert surgeons and see if you’re a candidate for an EVO ICL procedure.

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