Many patients considering vision correction wonder whether LASIK or EVO Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery is the better option.

Both procedures can reduce dependence on glasses and contact lenses, but they work in very different ways and may suit different types of eyes.

At The Eye Clinic by Dr Cheryl Lee, Dr Cheryl Lee provides personalised assessments to determine the most suitable vision correction procedure for each patient.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina.

It is commonly used to treat:

• myopia

• astigmatism

• hyperopia

LASIK permanently changes the shape of the cornea.

What Is EVO ICL?

EVO Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery involves placing a small biocompatible lens inside the eye without removing corneal tissue.

Unlike LASIK, EVO ICL preserves the natural structure of the cornea and is reversible if necessary.

Key Differences Between ICL and LASIK

LASIK

• laser reshapes the cornea

• permanent tissue removal

• suitable for many patients with moderate refractive error

EVO ICL

• lens implanted inside the eye

• cornea remains largely untouched

• reversible

• suitable for low and high degrees of myopia and astigmatism and thinner corneas

Who May Prefer EVO ICL?

EVO ICL is particularly suitable for patients with:

• high myopia

• thin corneas

• dry eyes or don’t want to develop dry eyes

• active lifestyles even extreme sports

• concerns about permanent corneal reshaping

• corneal scars

• if you don’t want to wear reading glasses later in life

Dry Eye Considerations

Some patients experience dry eye symptoms after laser vision correction because corneal nerves are affected during the procedure.

As EVO ICL does not reshape the cornea in the same way, it may be an important option for patients concerned about dry eyes.

Reversibility and Long-Term Planning

One advantage of EVO ICL is reversibility.

The implanted lens can be removed or exchanged when cataracts and presbyopia sets in. When not If.

Which Procedure Is Better?

There is no single “best” procedure for every patient.

The most suitable option depends on:

• prescription

• corneal thickness

• dry eye status

• lifestyle

• long-term visual goals

A detailed consultation and eye assessment are important before deciding on surgery.

About Dr Cheryl Lee’s ICL Experience

Dr Cheryl Lee has extensive experience in EVO Implantable Contact Lens surgery and has participated in international ICL expert meetings and surgeon education programmes.

Her practice focuses on personalised refractive surgery planning, particularly for patients with high myopia, dry eyes and complex refractive profiles.

Read more here about Dr Cheryl Lee’s ICL experience

FAQ

Is ICL safer than LASIK?

Both procedures are considered safe when performed on suitable patients. The best option depends on individual eye anatomy and visual needs.

Dr Cheryl Lee does additional steps to reduce ICL risks -like an ultrasound for ICL sizing read it here

Can ICL cause dry eyes?

Because EVO ICL preserves the cornea, ICL does not cause dry eyes.

Is ICL reversible?

Yes. One of the advantages of EVO ICL is that the lens can be removed when cataracts and presbyopia happens in the future.