EVO ICL™ Surgery
in Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom & Davis
Achieve Crystal-Clear Vision Without Glasses or Contact Lenses
Unlike LASIK and PRK, which reshape your cornea permanently, the EVO ICL works by placing a biocompatible lens inside your eye, behind the iris. This innovative approach makes it ideal for patients with thin corneas, high prescriptions, or a history of dry eye syndrome. With over 3 million lenses implanted worldwide and a 99% patient satisfaction rate, the EVO ICL represents a proven, reversible path to visual freedom.1
Are you tired of depending on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly? If you have moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia) with or without astigmatism, EVO ICL surgery might be the life-changing solution you’ve been searching for. At California LASIK & Eye in Sacramento, Dr. Bradley Barnett has helped hundreds of patients from Roseville, Folsom, Davis, and throughout Northern California achieve exceptional vision through this innovative, reversible procedure.
What Is EVO ICL?
Understanding Implantable Collamer Lens Technology
The EVO ICL is a prescription lens made from Collamer, a biocompatible material that has been safely used in eye surgery for over 25 years. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit on the surface of your eye, the EVO ICL is surgically implanted inside your eye, positioned just in front of your natural lens and behind your iris. This placement keeps the lens invisible to others and protected from external damage.
The EVO ICL corrects refractive errors by bending light rays as they enter your eye, allowing them to focus precisely on the retina. The lens is custom-made for your specific prescription, which can range from -3.00 to -20.00 diopters for nearsightedness, +3.00 to +20.00 diopters for farsightedness, and up to 6.00 diopters of astigmatism correction. This wide range of correction makes the EVO ICL suitable for patients with prescriptions too high or too low for LASIK.
Why Collamer Material Matters
Collamer is a unique material that combines the best properties of silicone and acrylic. It’s:
- Biocompatible, meaning your eye naturally accepts it without rejection
- Hydrophilic, allowing it to maintain moisture and reduce inflammation
- Durable, with no need for replacement unless your prescription changes significantly
- UV-protective, filtering harmful ultraviolet rays before they reach your retina
The material has been extensively studied and proven safe in clinical trials and real-world use across millions of implants globally.
Key Facts About EVO ICL:
- FDA-Approved: The EVO ICL received FDA approval in 2018 and has been performed over 1 million times worldwide
- Biocompatible Material: Made from Collamer, a material your eye naturally accepts
- Additive Technology: No corneal tissue is removed—the lens is added to your eye
- Reversible: The procedure can be reversed if your prescription changes or you choose to have it removed
- Invisible: The lens is positioned behind your iris and cannot be seen by others
- Maintenance-Free: Once implanted, the lens requires no special care or maintenance
The Benefits of EVO ICL
1. Visual Clarity and Quality
2. No Post-Surgical Dry Eye
3. Ideal for High Prescriptions and Thin Corneas
5. Reversible and Adjustable
6. Quick Recovery and Minimal Downtime
7. UV Protection
Dr. Barnett Answers Common ICL Surgery Questions
How the EVO ICL Procedure Works
The Science Behind the Vision
Your eye focuses light through the cornea and natural lens onto the retina at the back of your eye. In refractive errors, light focuses either in front of the retina (myopia, or nearsightedness) or behind it (hyperopia, or farsightedness). The EVO ICL works by positioning a custom-made lens inside your eye to redirect light rays so they focus precisely on the retina, eliminating the need for external correction.
Step-by-Step Procedure Overview
Understanding what happens during your EVO ICL procedure can help ease any anxiety and prepare you for the experience. Here’s exactly what to expect:
Before Your Procedure
Your journey begins with a comprehensive pre-operative evaluation. During this consultation, we perform advanced imaging to measure your anterior chamber depth, corneal thickness, and angle measurements. These precise measurements ensure your lens is positioned safely and optimally. We also discuss your lifestyle, visual goals, and any concerns about the procedure. You’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions, including which medications to avoid and when to stop eating and drinking before surgery.
During the Procedure
The EVO ICL procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery and typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing eye drops are applied to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- A small, self-sealing incision (approximately 3.2 millimeters) is created at the edge of your cornea.
- The EVO ICL is carefully inserted through this tiny opening using a specialized injector.
- Once inside your eye, the lens unfolds and is positioned behind your iris and in front of your natural lens.
- The incision is so small that it typically requires no stitches and seals naturally.
Throughout the procedure, you’ll remain awake but relaxed, and you won’t feel pain, only mild pressure. Dr. Bradley Barnett uses advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precision and safety.
Immediately After Surgery
You’ll spend 30-60 minutes in our recovery area as the numbing drops wear off. Your vision will be blurry initially, which is completely normal. You must arrange for someone to drive you home, as you won’t be able to drive safely on the day of surgery. We’ll provide you with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to use as directed.
Recovery and Results: What to Expect
Immediate Post-Op (First Few Hours):
Your eyes may feel slightly scratchy or irritated, similar to having a grain of sand in your eye. This sensation typically resolves within a few hours. You may experience mild light sensitivity and some blurriness. Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and strenuous activities. Use prescribed eye drops regularly to keep your eyes lubricated and prevent infection.
First Week
Most patients notice significant vision improvement within 24-48 hours. By the end of the first week, many achieve 20/20 vision or better. You can resume light activities like reading, computer work, and walking. Avoid heavy lifting, contact sports, and swimming. Continue using prescribed eye drops and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments.
First Month:
Your vision continues to stabilize and refine. By the end of the first month, the vast majority of patients achieve their final visual outcome. You can resume most normal activities, including exercise and sports, though we recommend waiting until your eye has fully healed before returning to contact sports. Continue using eye drops as directed.
Long-Term (3+ Months):
Your vision remains stable and clear. The EVO ICL requires no maintenance or replacement unless your prescription changes significantly. Regular eye exams with your optometrist or ophthalmologist are recommended annually to monitor your eye health and ensure the lens remains properly positioned.
EVO ICL vs. LASIK vs. PRK: A Detailed Comparison
|
Factor |
EVO ICL |
LASIK |
PRK |
|
How It Works |
Implants lens inside eye |
Reshapes cornea with laser |
Reshapes cornea with laser (no flap) |
|
Corneal Tissue Removed |
None (additive) |
Yes (subtractive) |
Yes (subtractive) |
|
Ideal Prescription Range |
-3.0 to -20.0 D myopia |
-1.0 to -12.0 D myopia |
-1.0 to -10.0 D myopia |
|
Astigmatism Correction |
Up to 4.0 D |
Up to 6.0 D |
Up to 6.0 D |
|
Thin Cornea Candidates |
Excellent option |
Not suitable |
Not suitable |
|
Dry Eye Risk |
No induction |
20-30% experience dry eye |
10-15% experience dry eye |
|
Recovery Time |
24-48 hours for significant improvement |
24 hours for significant improvement |
3-7 days for significant improvement |
|
Return to Work |
3-5 days |
1-3 days |
3-7 days |
|
Reversibility |
Yes (can be removed) |
No (permanent) |
No (permanent) |
|
Long-Term Stability |
Excellent (10+ years) |
Excellent (10+ years) |
Excellent (10+ years) |
When to Choose EVO ICL:
You have thin corneas, high prescriptions, dry eyes, or want a reversible option.
When to Choose LASIK:
You have moderate prescriptions, normal corneal thickness, and prefer the fastest recovery.
When to Choose PRK:
You have thin corneas but cannot undergo ICL surgery due to anterior chamber depth limitations.
Who Is a Good Candidate for EVO ICL?
Ideal Candidates Have:
- Nearsightedness (myopia) ranging from -3.00 to -20.00 diopters, farsightedness (hyperopia) from +3.00 to +20.00 diopters, or astigmatism up to 6.00 diopters
- Stable vision for at least 12 months (prescription hasn’t changed significantly)
- Corneas that are too thin for LASIK or PRK
- A history of dry eye syndrome or concerns about post-surgical dry eye
- Age between 21 and 45 years old (though older patients may be candidates)
- Healthy eyes free from conditions like keratoconus, severe cataracts, or retinal disease
- Realistic expectations about vision outcomes and the recovery process
Who May NOT Be a Candidate:
- Patients with anterior chamber depth less than 3.0 millimeters
- Those with narrow angles or angle-closure glaucoma
- Patients with active eye infections or inflammation
- Individuals with certain retinal conditions or severe myopia beyond -20 diopters
- Pregnant or nursing women (surgery is typically postponed)
- Patients with unrealistic expectations or psychological concerns about having a lens implant
During your consultation, we’ll perform advanced imaging and testing to determine your candidacy and discuss alternative options if the EVO ICL isn’t suitable for you.
EVO ICL May Be Right For You If
- You’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK
- You want to maintain the option to reverse or adjust your vision correction in the future
- You’re seeking the clearest possible vision without corneal reshaping
- You work in a dry environment or spend significant time outdoors in the Sacramento, Roseville, or Folsom area
- You’re an athlete or have an active lifestyle and want durable vision correction
Potential Risks & Complications: What You Should Know
Like any surgical procedure, the EVO ICL carries some risks, though serious complications are rare.
Common Side Effects (Usually Temporary):
Mild light sensitivity or glare, especially at night (typically resolves within 3-6 months)
Dry eye sensation (usually manageable with lubricating drops)
Slight halos around lights in low-light conditions (generally improves over time)
Mild eye irritation or scratchiness (resolves within days)
Less Common Complications (Rare)
- Lens malposition, requiring repositioning surgery
- Cataract formation, though this is extremely rare with modern EVO ICL technology
- Increased intraocular pressure, managed with eye drops or additional procedures
- Infection, prevented through sterile surgical technique and post-operative antibiotics
- Retinal detachment (extremely rare, occurring in approximately 0.05% of cases)
How We Minimize Risks:
- Comprehensive pre-operative screening to identify and exclude high-risk patients
- Advanced imaging to ensure precise lens sizing and positioning
- Meticulous surgical technique using state-of-the-art equipment
- Strict sterile protocols to prevent infection
- Detailed post-operative care instructions and close follow-up monitoring
- Immediate attention to any concerns or complications
Why Choose California LASIK & Eye for Your EVO ICL Surgery?
Frequently Asked Questions About EVO ICL
How long does the EVO ICL last?
The EVO ICL is designed to be permanent, though it can be removed or replaced if needed. There is no expiration date, and the lens does not require maintenance or replacement unless your prescription changes significantly or you develop a complication requiring removal.
Will I feel the lens in my eye?
No. Once your eye heals, you won’t feel the lens at all. It’s positioned behind your iris, where it’s invisible and doesn’t interfere with normal eye function or sensation.
Can I have the EVO ICL removed if I change my mind?
Yes. The EVO ICL can be removed surgically if you decide you want a different vision correction method or if complications arise. Removal is a straightforward procedure, though it’s rarely necessary.
Where can I find EVO ICL surgery near me?
California LASIK & Eye offers EVO ICL surgery to patients in Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, and Davis. Dr. Bradley Barnett and his team have performed hundreds of successful EVO ICL procedures for patients throughout Northern California. We’re committed to providing personalized, compassionate care and exceptional vision outcomes. Schedule your consultation today to see if EVO ICL is right for you.
How soon after surgery can I return to work?
Most patients can return to light desk work within 3-5 days. If your job involves physical labor, heavy lifting, or exposure to dust or chemicals, you may need to wait 1-2 weeks. We’ll provide specific guidance based on your occupation and healing progress.
Will my vision continue to change after EVO ICL surgery?
Your vision should remain stable after EVO ICL surgery. However, natural age-related changes like presbyopia (difficulty focusing on near objects) may occur as you age, just as they would without the procedure. These changes can be addressed with reading glasses or other vision correction methods.
Take Your First Step Toward Visual Freedom
The EVO ICL has transformed the lives of millions of patients worldwide, offering clear vision without compromising corneal health or worrying about post-surgical dry eye. If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK, or if you’re seeking a reversible, high-quality vision correction option, the EVO ICL may be right for you.
Dr. Bradley Barnett and the team at California LASIK & Eye are ready to help you achieve the clear vision you deserve. We serve patients throughout Sacramento, Roseville, and Folsom with personalized care, advanced technology, and exceptional outcomes.
Contact Us
Ready to explore whether EVO ICL surgery is right for you? Schedule your comprehensive consultation with Dr. Bradley Barnett today. During your visit, we’ll perform advanced testing, discuss your vision goals, and answer all your questions in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Sources
1 Parkhurst GD. A prospective comparison of phakic collamer lenses and wavefront-optimized laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis for correction of myopia. Clin Ophthalmol. 2016;10:1209-1215. Accessed December 9, 2025.
2 Parkhurst GD, Psolka M, Kezirian GM. 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. Accessed December 9, 2025.
3 Martínez-Plaza E, López-Miguel A, López-de la Rosa A, et al. Effect of the EVO+ Visian Phakic Implantable Collamer Lens on Visual Performance and Quality of Vision and Life, Am J Ophthalmol 2021;226:117-125. Accessed December 9, 2025.
4 Ganesh S, Brar S, Pawar A. Matched population comparison of visual outcomes and patient satisfaction between 3 modalities for the correction of low to moderate myopic astigmatism. Clin Ophthalmol. 2017;11:1253-1263. Accessed December 9, 2025.