Is LASIK Safe?
For decades, LASIK has been a go-to solution for people seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses. It remains one of the most widely performed and trusted elective procedures in the world—with a strong track record of safety, precision, and overwhelmingly high patient satisfaction.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) reshapes the cornea using a precise femtosecond laser to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure typically takes about 20 – 30 minutes to perform, recovery is fast, and most patients enjoy 20/20 vision or better within a day or two of the procedure. As we’ve shared before and continue to affirm, LASIK is an excellent option for many people.
Can Anyone Have LASIK Eye Surgery?
No, LASIK isn’t for everyone. LASIK requires a certain corneal thickness and ocular health profile. Some individuals may not be ideal candidates due to factors such as thin corneas, dry eyes, high prescriptions, or simply personal preference. The good news? LASIK isn’t the only option. There are both surgical and non surgical effective alternatives that also reduce or eliminate the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses. Two of the most promising alternatives are EVO ICL (a surgical solution) and orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K (a non-surgical approach).
EVO ICL: Implantable Collamer Lens
What is EVO ICL?
The EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is a long-term vision correction option for nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, it doesn’t reshape your cornea. Instead, it places a biocompatible lens gently inside your eye, between the iris and the natural lens. Think of it like an internal contact lens that stays in place 24/7—but you don’t feel it or need to maintain it like a traditional contact lens.
This procedure is refractive but not ablative, meaning no corneal tissue is removed. And here’s a major bonus: the EVO ICL is removable. If your prescription changes or you choose a different option in the future, the lens can be taken out.
Who is EVO ICL for?
EVO ICL is especially appealing for individuals with:
- High levels of nearsightedness (more than -8.00 diopters)
- Thin or irregular corneas
- Dry eyes that could be worsened by LASIK
- An interest in a reversible, additive procedure
Like LASIK, it’s FDA-approved, safe, and has a strong safety and satisfaction profile. Many patients report crisp, clear vision and even better nighttime vision than they had with glasses or contacts.
What to Expect from the Procedure
The EVO ICL procedure takes about 20–30 minutes and is typically done one eye at a time, on the same day. Recovery is similar to LASIK. It is fairly quick. Most people notice improved vision within 24 hours and return to normal activities shortly thereafter.
Pros of EVO ICL:
- Suitable for higher prescriptions
- Doesn’t cause dry eye symptoms
- Reversible and removable
- UV protection built into the lens
- High satisfaction and quality of vision
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Non-Surgical Vision Correction
What is Ortho-K?
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical approach to correcting vision using specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that you wear while you sleep. These lenses gently reshape the surface of your cornea overnight, so when you wake up and remove them in the morning, you can see clearly all day—no glasses or contacts needed.
It’s a fascinating solution that works similarly to braces for your eyes—only temporary. If you stop wearing the lenses, your eyes gradually return to their original shape.
Who is Ortho-K for?
Ortho-K is a fantastic option for:
- Children or teens with progressing myopia
- Adults with mild to moderate nearsightedness
- People with active lifestyles who prefer not to wear lenses during the day
- Those who are not ready or eligible for surgical vision correction
One of Ortho-K’s most powerful benefits is in myopia management for children. Studies have shown that Ortho-K can slow the progression of nearsightedness, potentially reducing the risk of future eye health issues like retinal detachment or glaucoma.
What to Expect from Ortho-K
After a detailed fitting with one of our trained eye care providers, you’ll receive custom lenses designed for your eyes. You’ll wear them each night while sleeping. Most people experience dramatic improvement in their vision after just a few nights.
Pros of Ortho-K:
- Non-surgical and reversible
- Safe for children
- Reduces or eliminates need for daytime glasses or contacts
- Can slow myopia progression
- Excellent for sports and active lifestyles
LASIK, EVO ICL, or Ortho-K: Which One Is Right for You?
| Feature | LASIK | EVO ICL | Ortho-K |
| Surgical or Non-Surgical | Surgical | Surgical (additive) | Non-surgical |
| Reversibility | Permanent (not reversible) | Reversible | Reversible |
| Treats Myopia | Yes | Yes (up to -20.00 D) | Yes (up to -6.00 D typically) |
| Treats Astigmatism | Yes | Yes | Mild to moderate |
| Suitable for Dry Eyes | May worsen symptoms | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal for Kids | No | No | Yes |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Minimal | Requires nightly lens wear |
Final Thoughts: There’s a Clear Path for Everyone
LASIK is a remarkable advancement in vision correction, but it’s not the only route to visual freedom. Whether you’re seeking a surgical alternative like EVO ICL or a non-surgical approach like Ortho-K, rest assured—plenty of safe, effective options exist. And the right one for you depends on your eye anatomy, lifestyle, age, and personal preferences.
We understand that making a decision about your vision isn’t just medical—it’s personal. That’s why we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. During a comprehensive consultation with our team of experienced eye care professionals, we can discuss the procedures mentioned in this article, and even more options that may be of interest to you. When you understand all of the options available to you, it’s easier to determine your best path forward.If you’re curious about EVO ICL, Ortho-K, or simply want to revisit whether LASIK is right for you, schedule an appointment with us today. Clearer vision is within reach—on your terms.
