The EVO ICL folds for insertion through a tiny incision, then unfolds for placement behind the iris
Comparing LASIK and EVO Implantable Contact Lens at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Vision Center
Many patients come to Barnet Dulaney Perkins Vision Center wanting freedom from glasses and contacts, but not everyone is an ideal LASIK candidate. Fortunately, advances in refractive surgery give you options. In addition to Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), the EVO Implantable Contact Lens (EVO ICL) offers outstanding vision correction for a broader range of prescriptions. Here’s everything you need to know to decide which path is right for your eyes—and how we guide you every step of the way.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK reshapes your cornea with an excimer laser so that light focuses precisely on the retina. At BDP, we use the Allegretto WaveLight® excimer laser combined with the WaveLight FS200 femtosecond laser—two of the fastest, most precise systems available. Most patients notice dramatically clearer vision within hours, with optimal results by day 7–10.
What Is EVO ICL?
The EVO ICL is a removable, ultra-thin lens implanted behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. Unlike LASIK, no corneal tissue is removed, making EVO ICL ideal for:
- High Myopia: Prescriptions beyond the safe LASIK range (-0.5 D to -8.0 D).
- Thin Corneas or Ectasia Risk: No flap or corneal ablation required.
- Long-Term Flexibility: ICLs can be exchanged if your prescription changes.
Patients typically see near-perfect vision by the next day, and the procedure takes just 5–10 minutes per eye.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
LASIK Candidates
- Age 18–45 with a stable prescription (<0.50 D change in 12 months)
- Mild to moderate myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism
- Healthy corneas (thickness ≥ 500 µm) and minimal dry eye
- No autoimmune disease or uncontrolled diabetes
EVO ICL Candidates
- Age 21–45 with moderate to severe myopia (-3.0 D to -20.0 D)
- Thin or irregular corneas
- Desire a reversible, long-term correction
- Good overall eye health (no glaucoma or anterior eye pathology)
CTA: I’m not sure which is right for you. Book a personalized consultation to assess your options.
Preparing for Your Procedure
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: We measure corneal thickness, pupil size, tear film quality, and overall ocular health.
- Contact Lens Holiday: Discontinue soft lenses 72 hours before and rigid gas-permeable lenses 2 weeks before any corneal procedure.
- Medication & Lifestyle Review: We’ll advise on dry-eye supplements, blood-thinners, and any necessary pre-op labs.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
- Anesthesia: Numbing eye drops plus optional light oral sedation.
- LASIK: Creation of a precise corneal flap, reshaping with excimer laser, then flap repositioning—total time ~10 minutes per eye.
- EVO ICL: Micro-incision (≤ 2.8 mm), insertion of the folded lens, and positioning behind the iris—total time ~5 minutes per eye.
- Immediate Care: Protective shields, post-op drops, and a driver home.
Recovery & Follow-Up
- Day 1 Post-Op: Vision check and slit-lamp exam. Expect some haziness or glare, which clears quickly.
- Week 1: Most LASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision; EVO ICL patients often report striking clarity by day 2.
- Month 1: Final prescription stabilized; comprehensive exam to confirm perfect healing.
Tips for smooth recovery:
- Use prescribed preservative-free drops regularly
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and heavy exercise for 1 week
Risks & Benefits
Both LASIK and EVO ICL carry low complication rates under expert care. Potential issues include dry eye (more common after LASIK) or halos (rarely persistent with ICL). Our surgeons’ extensive experience and advanced diagnostics minimize every risk, ensuring you enjoy lasting visual freedom.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between LASIK and EVO ICL depends on your prescription, corneal health, and lifestyle goals. At Barnet Dulaney Perkins Vision Center, we offer a data-driven evaluation that combines top-tier technology, personalized counseling, and ongoing support so you can confidently select the procedure that best fits your vision for life.
Ready to see whether LASIK or EVO ICL is right for you? Schedule your vision correction consultation now.