ICL FAQ

The EVO Implantable Collamer Lens for nearsightedness is a refractive lens also known as a phakic IOL. “Phakic” meaning that the natural lens of the eye remains in place, and “IOL” meaning intraocular lens, or a lens inside the eye. The EVO ICL is a posterior chamber implant that is inserted through a small incision in the eye behind the iris, and in front of the natural crystalline lens to correct your nearsightedness.

The ICL procedure has been available internationally for 15 years. Today, over 2 million ICLs have been implanted worldwide with a 99.4% patient satisfaction rate.

The ICL is designed for the correction of moderate-to-high nearsightedness and astigmatism. ICL represents an alternative to other refractive surgeries such as LASIK, SMILE, and PRK.

Yes. The EVO ICL is intended to remain in place without maintenance. However, the EVO ICL can be removed if needed.

No. The EVO ICL is positioned behind the iris, where it is invisible to both you and others. Only an eye doctor will be able to tell that you have had an ICL vision correction procedure.

ICL is not noticeable after it is implanted. It does not attach to any structures within the eye and does not move around.

ICL surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, which means the patient has surgery and leaves the same day. The procedure itself usually takes 20 minutes or less. You will need someone to drive you home on surgery day.

At Kugler Vision, we use numbing drops to keep you comfortable during the procedure. There can be some slight sensation of pressure during the procedure, but overall, patients say, “That was easier than a visit to my dentist.”

Upon your consultation with our surgeons, we will provide you with the cost of the procedure, financing options, and payment plans. ICL is eligible for Flex Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA).  

LASIK is a procedure that uses a laser to change the shape of the surface of the eye. The ICL does not change the shape of the eye. The ICL is implanted inside the eye and works alongside the natural structures of the eye to achieve clear vision without glasses or contact lenses.

No. Patients who get dry eyes from traditional contact lenses may be ideally suited for ICL since you cannot feel this lens. ICL is designed to remain in place and inside your eye, without maintenance. After the ICL is implanted, a routine, annual visit with your eye doctor is recommended, just as it is for all people to maintain eye health.

Most patients take one to two days off work. Patients can typically drive and go back to work the day after the follow-up exam, which is the next day after the procedure.