EVO ICL and Dry Eyes: A Solution for Sensitive Eyes?

If you’ve ever struggled with dry eyes and vision problems, you’re not alone. Many people suffer from discomfort caused by traditional contact lenses or find themselves ineligible for LASIK due to chronic dryness or thin corneas. Fortunately, there’s an innovative solution that’s rapidly gaining traction among patients with sensitive eyes: EVO Implantable Collamer Lenses (EVO ICL).

At Pacific Vision Institute in San Francisco, a nationally recognized leader in advanced vision correction, EVO ICL is changing lives by offering crystal-clear vision without contributing to dry eye symptoms. Let’s explore how EVO ICL works and why it’s a promising option for patients prone to dry eyes.

Why Dry Eyes Disqualify Some from LASIK

Dry eyes are more than just uncomfortable—they can impact the outcome of certain vision correction procedures. LASIK, for instance, involves reshaping the cornea, which can disrupt tear production and worsen dryness. For patients already experiencing dry eye symptoms, this can be a dealbreaker.

LASIK may not be suitable for patients with dry eyes due to:

Corneal reshaping: Alters the surface of the eye, affecting tear production.
Increased dryness: May exacerbate existing dry eye symptoms.
Post-surgical discomfort: Dryness can slow healing and reduce visual outcomes.

This is where EVO ICL steps in. Because the procedure doesn’t involve removing corneal tissue, it preserves the natural structure of the eye and helps maintain a stable tear film—making it a safer choice for patients with existing dryness.

How EVO ICL Works

EVO ICL is a biocompatible, implantable lens made from Collamer®, a material that works in harmony with your eye’s natural chemistry. The lens is gently inserted behind the iris and in front of the eye’s natural lens through a quick, virtually painless procedure that usually takes 20–30 minutes.

Once placed, the lens is invisible and undetectable—you won’t see or feel it, but you’ll immediately notice the improvement in your vision. It’s ideal for treating nearsightedness, astigmatism, and myopia, especially in cases where other procedures aren’t suitable. Perhaps best of all for patients with dry eyes, the lens doesn’t sit on the surface of the eye, meaning it doesn’t disrupt tear production or require hydration like traditional contact lenses.

EVO ICL Benefits for Sensitive Eyes

Patients with dry, sensitive eyes often report significant relief after switching to EVO ICL. Here’s why it stands out:

Surface-sparing procedure: EVO ICL doesn’t disturb the cornea, reducing the risk of post-procedure dryness.
No contact with the tear film: Unlike contact lenses, EVO ICLs don’t rest on the surface of the eye.
Biocompatible material: The lens works with your eye’s natural environment, minimizing irritation.
Long-term comfort: Once implanted, the lens requires no cleaning, maintenance, or removal.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for EVO ICL if you:

Are between the ages of 21 and 45
Have moderate to severe nearsightedness or astigmatism
Have been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK or PRK
Experience chronic dry eyes or have a thin or irregular cornea
Want a reversible, long-lasting solution for clearer vision

Clear Vision Without the Compromise

Vision correction shouldn’t mean sacrificing comfort. EVO ICL provides a powerful alternative for those who want sharp, reliable vision without worsening dry eyes. With a 99% patient satisfaction rate, rapid recovery, and long-lasting results, EVO ICL is becoming the go-to choice for patients with sensitive eyes.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation at Pacific Vision Institute—San Francisco’s leader in advanced, patient-focused eye care—contact us today. Let us help you find your clearest, most comfortable vision yet.