Is EVO ICL™ better than LASIK?

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This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on each individual patient's eyes, lifestyle and health. The most important question is which procedure is best for YOU. Both the EVO ICL™ and LASIK are very effective methods of vision correction surgery and have a high success rate of achieving spectacle independence.

It is important to note that EVO ICL™ and LASIK are different procedures that correct nearsightedness with or without astigmatism. LASIK corrects vision by reshaping the cornea, while EVO ICL™ involves implanting a lens in the eye. EVO ICL™ is often a better option for patients with very high prescriptions, thin corneas or dry eyes, whereas LASIK may be a better option for patients with moderate to high prescriptions and good corneal thickness.

While LASIK is a more well-known procedure and results of wavefront guided [iDesign LASIK] achieve 20/20 or better vision in more than 95% of patients¹, the EVO ICL™ has been shown to have advantages over LASIK in certain cases. For example, a study published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery found that EVO ICL™ provided better visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in patients with high myopia compared to LASIK. Additionally, EVO ICL™ may be a better option for patients who are not suitable candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or other factors.²

Both procedures have a high patient satisfaction rate, 96% for LASIK and 99.4% of the EVO ICL™.^3-5

While LASIK is a more well-known procedure, EVO ICL™ has been shown to have advantages over LASIK in certain cases. For example, a study published found that EVO ICL™ provided better visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in patients with high myopia compared to LASIK.⁶ Additionally, EVO ICL™ may be a better option for patients who are not suitable candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, higher prescriptions or other factors.

Ultimately, the decision between EVO ICL™ and LASIK should be based on a thorough consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist like Dr. Sandy T. Feldman. She has significant experience in most advanced forms of surgical vision correction available. and can evaluate your eyes and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure in order to help you make an informed decision about the best way to achieve clear, sharp vision.

1. Manche E, Lu L. A prospective randomized, fellow eye study comparing wavefront guided and topography guided LASIK surgery. Presentation ASCRS annual meeting 2023.
2. Parkhurst G, Psolka M, Kezirian G. Phakic intraocular lens implantation in United States military warfighters: A retrospective analysis of early clinical outcomes of the Visian ICL. J Refract Surg. 2011;27(7):473-481
3. Staar Survey.
4. "Is LASIK Safe? What You Need to Know." Refractive Surgery Council, 13 Oct. 2022, https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/is-lasik-safe/.
5. Eydelman M, Hilmantel G, Tarver ME, et al. Symptoms and Satisfaction of Patients in the Patient-Reported Outcomes With Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (PROWL) Studies. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2017;135(1):13-22. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2016.4587. Available: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/2587831. Accessed March 1, 2021. 6. Igarashi A, Kamiya K, Shimizu K, Komatsu M. Visual performance after implantable collamer lens implantation and wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis for high myopia. Am J Ophthalmol. 2009 Jul;148(1):164-70.

At Clearview, San Diego's LASIK Center, we treat your vision and comfort like our own. We’re here to address your questions & concerns!

• Call Us: (858) 452-3937

• 6255 Lusk Blvd, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92121

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