When it comes to addressing your vision issues, making an informed decision that best suits your needs and eye health is crucial. You may have come across a relatively recent eye surgery known as EVO ICL, which serves as an alternative to LASIK. In this article, we will provide a clear definition of both procedures and discuss their differences to empower you in making the optimal choice for your vision.
What is EVO ICL?
EVO ICL surgery represents a form of refractive surgery that can be likened to the introduction of specialized permanent “contact” lenses into your eyes. These lenses, referred to as Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL), possess dimensions that are thinner and smaller compared to typical contact lenses. A skilled ophthalmologist implants this lens within the interior of the eye, positioning it behind the iris and in front of the eye’s natural lens. Within the core of the ICL lies a perforation designed to facilitate fluid circulation around the lens and iris. Notably, this lens is permanent and does not necessitate removal or cleaning akin to regular contact lenses.
LASIK VS EVO ICL?
In contrast to EVO ICL surgery, which entails an incision in the eye for lens placement behind the iris, LASIK operates entirely on the cornea, the transparent, front part of the eye. LASIK achieves vision correction by reshaping the cornea, altering its curvature to provide improved vision. Before commencing the LASIK procedure, numbing drops with anesthetic properties are applied to your eyes. Once your eyes are fully anesthetized, a LASIK surgeon employs a laser to create a thin, hinged corneal flap, which is then gently folded back to expose the stromal layer of the cornea. Subsequently, a computer-controlled laser emits controlled pulses of light to reshape the cornea, customizing the correction to your individual visual needs. The corneal flap is repositioned over the treated cornea and begins healing immediately. It adheres through natural suction, eliminating the need for sutures. The precise lasers employed during LASIK procedures ensure the permanent reshaping of the cornea to rectify the patient’s vision.
Risks Associated with EVO ICL
STAAR Surgical, a leading manufacturer of ICL implants, reports the following risks associated with EVO ICL lenses:
1. Additional (Secondary) Surgery
Patients who undergo EVO ICL surgery may find themselves facing the possibility of additional surgeries. These procedures might be necessary for various reasons, such as the need to remove, replace, or reposition the EVO ICL lens. Additionally, secondary surgery could be required if a patient develops a cataract or experiences elevated intraocular pressure. In certain situations, these secondary surgeries are essential for maintaining eye health and visual clarity.
2. Raised Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and Glaucoma Development
Another reported risk associated with EVO ICL surgery is the potential for elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Normal eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure (IOP), typically falls within the range of 10-21 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). An IOP above this range is termed ocular hypertension, and if left untreated, it can lead to optic nerve damage, resulting in glaucoma and permanent vision loss. Patients with high levels of nearsightedness are at an increased risk of developing glaucoma. Monitoring and managing IOP is crucial for long-term eye health.
3. Cataract Formation
EVO ICL lenses are implanted inside the eye near the crystalline lens. This proximity increases the risk of cataract development, particularly in older patients with higher levels of nearsightedness prior to surgery. The risk of cataract formation continues to rise with each year the EVO ICL lens remains in the eye. Cataracts that affect vision may necessitate surgical removal. Therefore, regular eye examinations are essential to monitor cataract progression. In cases where cataract surgery is recommended, both the EVO ICL lens and the cataract are addressed simultaneously.
4. Loss of Best Corrected Vision
There is a possibility that your vision may worsen after EVO ICL surgery, resulting in a loss of two or more lines as measured on an eye chart.
5. Endothelial Cell Loss
The cornea’s clarity is maintained by a thin layer of cells called endothelial cells, which pump water out of the cornea. Over time, these cells naturally decrease in number with age. However, EVO ICL surgery can lead to additional loss of these cells beyond the normal rate. Excessive loss can cloud the cornea, reducing vision. Before undergoing EVO ICL surgery, patients receive an eye exam to determine their candidacy. Those implanted with EVO ICL lenses may experience ongoing endothelial cell loss, potentially leading to corneal edema (swelling) or even requiring corneal transplantation.
6. Glare and Halos
Glare and halos, particularly noticeable in low-light conditions with dilated pupils, may become more bothersome after EVO ICL surgery. Even if patients did not experience glare and halos before surgery, they may develop these visual disturbances post-surgery. Patients currently experiencing glare and halos should be aware that these symptoms could intensify following EVO ICL surgery.
7. Additional Risks
Beyond the aforementioned risks, STAAR Surgical also notes that EVO ICL surgery may be associated with additional potential complications, including:
– Movement of the colored portion of the eye (iris) through a surgical wound to a position outside the eye (iris prolapse).
– Bleeding in the area of the retina responsible for reading vision (macular hemorrhage).
– Bleeding beneath the retina (subretinal hemorrhage).
– Increase in focusing error (astigmatism).
– Lifting or pulling of the retina from its natural position (retinal detachment).
– Inability of fluid to flow from the back chamber of the eye to the front chamber, frequently blocking drainage and raising eye pressure (pupillary block glaucoma).
– Unequal pupil size (anisocoria).
– Abnormal release of pigment particles from cells in the eye that could block fluid drainage from inside to outside the eye (pigment dispersion).
– Scar tissue formation at the outer edges of the front chamber of the eye (peripheral anterior synechiae).
EVO ICL surgery offers significant benefits in terms of vision correction, but it is important to be aware of the associated risks. Patients considering this procedure should engage in thorough discussions regarding the risks and benefits with their eye care professionals to make informed decisions about their eye health. Regular post-operative check-ups are vital for monitoring potential complications and addressing them promptly, ensuring the best possible visual outcomes after EVO ICL surgery.
Similarly, LASIK offers significant benefits in terms of vision correction, but like all medical procedures, also presents its own set of associated risks. These may include dry eyes, glare, halos, and the potential need for enhancement surgeries. To determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs, you can begin with a LASIK consultation conducted by a qualified LASIK specialist.
At the LASIK Vision Institute, we offer complimentary consultations to assess your eligibility for LASIK. If you qualify, we are excited to provide you with the opportunity to undergo traditional LASIK, which can enhance your vision. However, if LASIK is not a suitable choice for your situation, our medical team can discuss alternative options with you, including EVO ICL, to address your unique requirements.
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If you’re interested in learning morning about LASIK vision correction, schedule your free consultation at on of our local LASIK Vision Institute locations to speak with your LASIK team about your candidacy, learn all of the details about laser eye surgery, and get answers to all of your key questions.
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