What is the Intraocular Collamer Lens (EVO ICL™) Procedure?
An Intraocular Collamer Lens (EVO ICL™), or Phakic IOL, is a thin intraocular lens designed to rest in front of the eye’s natural lens, just behind the iris. It is made of a biocompatible material called collamer, which is designed to function in harmony with the eyes.
Introduced in 2002 in North America, the Intraocular Collamer Lens (EVO ICL™) procedure is a great option for patients who are better suited to a lens-based vision correction procedure than laser vision correction, particularly those with very high prescriptions, thin corneas, or pre-existing dry eye syndrome. EVO ICL™ is designed to correct a wide range of prescriptions, including low to very high levels of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
EVO ICL™ Facts:
- High patient satisfaction: Over 99.4% of EVO ICL™ patients say they would have the procedure again.
- Removable vision correction: EVO ICL™ is designed as a long-term vision correction solution, but the lens is removable and reversible if needed.
- Quick procedure: The EVO ICL™ procedure is typically completed in approximately 15 minutes using anesthetic eye drops.
- Rapid vision improvement: Most patients notice their vision has improved directly following their EVO ICL™ procedure.
- Built-in UV protection: EVO ICL™ lenses feature built-in UV protection.
- Preserves the cornea: Unlike laser vision correction, EVO ICL™ does not remove corneal tissue.
Why Patients Choose EVO ICL™ at Herzig Eye Institute
EVO ICL™ offers a unique approach to vision correction by placing a removable lens inside the eye without removing corneal tissue. This makes it an important option for a wide range of patients, including those with higher prescriptions, and places a strong emphasis on careful evaluation, precise measurements, and surgical experience.
Herzig Eye Institute has been at the forefront of ICL vision correction for more than two decades. Dr. Sheldon Herzig was one of the first surgeons in North America to perform the ICL procedure, establishing a depth of experience with implantable lens vision correction that continues today.
Today, Herzig Eye Institute is STAAR Surgical’s #1 account in Canada and has received multiple North American distinctions recognizing its experience, procedure volume, and continued growth in ICL:
- ICL Practice Champion in North America: 2023, 2024 & 2025
- Highest Growth Practice Award in North America: Herzig Eye Institute, 2025
- Highest Growth Award in North America: Dr. Milad Modabber, 2025
- 2025 Growth Award recipients: Dr. Sheldon Herzig, Dr. Kashif Baig, Dr. Milad Modabber, and Dr. Barrett Eubanks
With more than two decades of ICL experience, significant procedure volumes, and repeated recognition from STAAR Surgical, Herzig Eye Institute continues to be recognized in EVO ICL™ vision correction across North America.
Our clinical experience is complemented by a strong focus on personalized patient care. From your first consultation through your procedure and follow-up care, our team strives to provide a highly personalized, concierge-level experience designed around your comfort and peace of mind. Thoughtful details, comfortable pre- and post-operative spaces, and attentive care at every step create an experience that feels distinctly different from a traditional medical clinic.
It is this combination of extensive EVO ICL™ expertise and a personalized approach of patient care that defines the Herzig Eye Institute experience.
“We realized there were a lot of patients who couldn’t have a laser-based vision correction procedure and we had to turn a lot of them away. It was extremely disappointing.
Along came this wonderful procedure: the EVO ICL™. About 20 years ago, I started doing the EVO ICL™ procedure and it’s been one of the most exciting and rewarding of all the refractive procedures.
The EVO ICL™ was a revolutionary treatment. We could put this tiny lens into someone’s eye and change their vision overnight – quickly and safely.”
-Dr. Sheldon Herzig, Chief Medical Officer & Co-Founder
Why do refractive surgeons recommend EVO ICL™ over a laser vision correction procedure?
Who is a EVO ICL™ Candidate?
EVO ICL™ can be an excellent vision correction option for people with a wide range of prescriptions and may be particularly well suited to those with higher prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eye concerns. Because EVO ICL™ works without removing corneal tissue, it offers an alternative approach to laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK, PRK, and SMILE.
At Herzig Eye Institute, EVO ICL™ candidacy is determined through a comprehensive eye examination and advanced diagnostic testing. Your eye doctor will assess the health and unique characteristics of your eyes, review your prescription and vision goals, and recommend the vision correction procedure best suited to your individual needs.
Treatment Alternatives
If you are deemed ineligible for EVO ICL™ during your consultation, you may be a candidate for one of our other procedures, such as SMILE/SMILE Pro, Custom LASIK, Custom PRK, or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE).
EVO ICL™ lenses are customized to your eyes, a pre-operative measurement appointment is required to determine the appropriate lens power. Additional testing may also be recommended to assess the health of your eyes before your procedure.
Before your EVO ICL™ procedure, you may be asked to:
- Stop wearing contact lenses for the period of time outlined by your Refractive Consultant.
- Attend an additional examination to assess the health of your retina.
- Arrange transportation to and from Herzig Eye Institute on the day of your procedure.
From the moment you arrive, our team will be there to make sure you feel comfortable, informed, and well cared for. Your eyes will be dilated and you’ll relax in our comfortable pre-operative lounge while our clinical team prepares you for your ICL™ procedure. We’ll walk you through what to expect and make sure you feel ready and at ease before entering the procedure room.
The ICL™ procedure is minimally invasive and typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Your eyes are numbed using anesthetic drops, and the ICL™ lens is inserted through a very small opening that does not require stitches.
Following the procedure, your surgeon will examine your eyes before you leave Herzig Eye Institute.
Directly following the procedure, you will be examined by the surgeon. After your examination, you will have time to relax and recover in our comfortable post-operative lounge, where you can enjoy a refreshments and a light snack while our team continues to care for you. You may experience blurry vision, mild discomfort, or sensitivity to light following your EVO ICL™ procedure, which can be expected during the early recovery period.
You will be provided with a medicated eye drop regimen and detailed post-operative instructions to support your recovery. Our team will review your drop schedule, activity guidelines, and follow-up care with you and answer any questions before you leave Herzig Eye Institute.
Post-operative examinations are an important part of your EVO ICL™ care and recovery. These appointments allow your eye doctor to monitor your healing, assess your vision, and ensure your eyes are recovering as expected.
It is important to attend all recommended follow-up appointments at Herzig Eye Institute or with your referring optometrist. Our team will guide you through your post-operative care and be available to address any questions throughout your recovery.
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