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What is the EVO Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)?

Wang Vision Institute was the first center in Middle Tennessee to perform the New EVO Implantable Contact Lens.

EVO ICL is an Implantable Collamer™ Lens that corrects common vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Collamer is a biocompatible material that works in harmony with the eye. The lens, which is slightly smaller than a typical contact lens, is implanted in the eye during a 20 to 30 minute procedure. Unlike laser vision correction surgeries that permanently change the shape of your cornea, the EVO ICL procedure is additive, meaning that no corneal tissue is removed. Worldwide, more than 1 million EVO ICL lenses have been implanted.

What are the Benefits of EVO ICL?

EVO ICL offers many benefits for patients who are candidates for the ICL procedure and are seeking a vision solution that allows them the freedom of less dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The advantages of EVO ICL include:

  • Sharp, clear vision 
  • Excellent night vision 
  • Does not cause dry eye syndrome, which is a common concern with 
    laser vision correction surgeries 
  • Quick procedure and recovery with minimal downtime
  • A great option for people with thin corneas 
  • Built-in UV Protection
  • Designed for permanent vision correction, but can be removed for added peace of mind

WHAT IS TORIC ICL?

The EVO implantable contact lens (ICL) is an innovative lens that is placed behind the iris and in front of the eye's crystalline lens to correct vision in patients with astigmatism and nearsightedness. This technique works with the eye to not only restore clear and sharp vision but also provide UV protection to the eyes and improve a patient's ability to see at night. Implantable contact lens surgery may be a great option for patients who don't qualify for another refractive laser treatment (such as LASIK and PRK) or for those who don't wish to have multiple vision surgeries performed simultaneously (one to correct myopia and one to address astigmatism).

In a procedure that takes less than 30 minutes, the EVO ICL and Toric ICL allow our eye surgeons at Wang Vision Institute to treat patients with higher levels of astigmatism and myopia while preserving the corneal structure of the eye. If you rely on eyeglasses or contact lenses to see clearly and would like to reduce your dependence and improve your vision, contact our Nashville, TN office to learn about your options. As one of the first practices in the state to offer ICL and Toric ICL for astigmatism correction, you can trust that your procedure will be performed by a skilled and experienced team.

Who is a candidate for ICL?

Patients who have been turned away from LASIK or PRK in the past may be able to find the solution they need with ICL or Toric ICL. This procedure is intended for those who:

  • Are in overall good health
  • Have myopia with astigmatism
  • Have a consistent eyeglass prescription
  • Are at least 21 years of age

To fully assess your candidacy for the procedure, one of our skilled ophthalmologists will conduct a comprehensive eye exam and ask questions regarding your medical history. Men and women with keratoconus, glaucoma, cataracts, or those who have had cataract surgery may not be approved for an implantable contact lens treatment. Additionally, individuals who are pregnant or nursing will likely need to wait to have the surgery.

WHAT TO EXPECT during ICL surgery

Implantable contact lens surgery is an outpatient procedure that is performed at our Nashville, TN outpatient surgery facility, typically in under 30 minutes. Prior to surgery, we will numb your eyes to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the session. Nearly all of our patients report feeling no discomfort during their ICL or Toric ICL procedure. Using advanced technology, one of our highly trained ophthalmologists will create a small opening into the eye (about 3mm in size) and use a fine, special tool to place the lens, which will be positioned behind the iris and in front of your natural lens to cover the area and improve your vision acuity for the long-term.

Like with LASIK, the majority of patients will notice an improvement in their sight immediately after the surgery. Typically, most individuals will achieve their fullest outcomes about four weeks after their treatment.

How long is recovery after ICL surgery?

After your ICL or Toric ICL surgery, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home. Before you leave, we will schedule a follow-up visit to our Nashville, TN office the very next day so we can conduct a post-surgical assessment. We will also schedule future check-ins at one month and six months post-op to ensure that you're healing well and your vision quality has improved. A member of our team will prescribe anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops after your treatment to prevent infection. While you recover, it will be important that you avoid putting any unnecessary pressure on the eyes, internal or external, caused by rubbing, massaging, heavy lifting, or straining.

Many patients experience wonderful results following their ICL or Toric ICL procedure, often achieving 20/40 vision or better with some people even reaching 20/20 vision.

Implantable Contact Lens FAQ

How long do implantable contact lenses last?
Implantable contact lenses are permanent and should last a lifetime. You should no longer have a need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Talk with our Nashville, TN eye care team to learn more about your expected results.

Is an implantable contact lens treatment safe?
ICL surgery is a quick and safe treatment performed at Wang Vision Institute's outpatient surgery facility. The entire procedure usually takes about 15 minutes to complete. You will lay down comfortably in one of our private treatment rooms, and your eyes will be carefully numbed with eyedrops prior to the procedure.

How long does it take to recover after ICL surgery?
Typically, recovery after ICL surgery is relatively quick. You will start to notice improvements in your vision within the first day after your treatment. Optimal results can become noticeable within about a month from your ICL surgery.|

Can I still develop other eye conditions after getting implantable contact lenses?
Yes, getting implantable contact lenses does not make you immune to other eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or age-related macular degeneration. It's essential to continue with regular eye exams and consultations with our eye care team to monitor your overall eye health.

How does the implantation of contact lenses affect my night vision?
Generally, patients experience significant improvement in their overall vision, including night vision, after getting implantable contact lenses. However, some individuals may experience halos or glare initially. These symptoms often subside as your eyes adjust to the new lenses. Discuss any concerns about night vision with our Nashville, TN eye care specialists for a more personalized assessment.

Is it possible to switch back to regular contact lenses or glasses after ICL surgery?
While implantable contact lenses are designed to be permanent solutions for vision correction, in rare cases, they can be removed or replaced. However, switching back to eyeglasses or contact lenses would require an additional evaluation and potentially another surgical procedure. If you are considering this, consult our experienced eye care team for personalized advice.

SOLUTIONS FOR ASTIGMATISM and more

Our team at Wang Vision Institute is pleased to offer our Nashville, TN patients a diverse range of solutions to enhance their overall quality of sight and vision acuity. ICL and Toric ICL (implantable contact lens) is an innovative new treatment that gives men and women the ability to see clearer without relying on glasses or removable contacts. Unlike regular contact lenses, these lenses do not have to be taken out every night. If you're bothered by astigmatism and nearsightedness and would like to learn about your options for improvement, contact our office today and schedule a surgical evaluation.

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*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.