If you’re a swimmer or diver, you know how frustrating glasses and contact lenses can be in the water. EVO ICL is a vision correction option that offers sharp, stable vision without the hassle of external lenses. Waite Vision understands the unique needs of athletes who rely on clear underwater vision and freedom of movement. In this article, we’ll cover what swimmers and divers need to know about EVO ICL. Schedule a consultation with Waite Vision to find out if it’s the right solution for you.
What is EVO ICL and how does it work for swimmers and divers?
EVO ICL is a vision correction procedure where an intraocular collamer lens is placed between the iris and the natural lens of the human eye. The ICL has the full prescription built into it, so it is able to fully correct the glasses prescritpion. Unlike LASIK, EVO ICL does not use a laser to reshape the cornea and instead preserves its natural structure, which benefits patients with myopia or astigmatism, especially those with thin or irregular corneas. This approach also allows for great visual stability in high-pressure environments like a swimming pool or open water. Because the ICL is internal and unaffected by water, goggles, or changing light conditions, it provides swimmers and divers with consistent visual perception.
Why is EVO ICL safer in water than contact lenses?
EVO ICL is safe in water because the lens is placed inside the eye and protected from external contaminants, unlike a contact lens that sits on the surface. Water in swimming pools and oceans can carry bacteria or parasites like Acanthamoeba, which can become trapped under contact lenses and lead to serious infections. Once healing is complete after eye surgery, patients with EVO ICL can swim or dive without risk of infection or the lens dislodging or becoming contaminated. Contact lenses, in contrast, are not recommended during aquatic activities due to the risk of loss and health complications.
Does EVO ICL offer better vision stability than contact lenses during swimming and diving?
EVO ICL offers better vision stability than contact lenses because it provides permanent, internal correction that does not shift with water pressure or movement. Contact lenses can move, fall out, or become cloudy when exposed to water, affecting vision clarity and performance. For swimmers and divers, consistent vision is critical, and EVO ICL eliminates the variability that comes with external contact lenses. Once fully healed, EVO ICL provides clear and stable sight during both surface swimming and deeper scuba diving activities.
How comfortable is EVO ICL in wet environments compared to contact lenses?
EVO ICL is more comfortable than contact lenses in wet environments because it does not dry out or cause irritation. Contact lenses can become tight and uncomfortable when exposed to water, especially in chlorinated or salty conditions, which can also impact eye health. EVO ICL, on the other hand, maintains the eye’s natural moisture balance, helping patients avoid dryness and discomfort. This comfort is particularly beneficial for individuals who spend significant time in the water and want a solution that won’t interfere with their activities.
Is there UV protection with EVO ICL for outdoor swimmers?
EVO ICL includes built-in UV protection because of the Collamer material used to make the lens. Most contact lenses do not provide full UV protection. For swimmers and divers who spend time outdoors, particularly in reflective environments like water, UV protection is an important factor in preserving long-term eye health. EVO ICL offers consistent and complete UV defense without the need for special lenses during every water activity. Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection like Rawzi Eyewear lenses (make this a live link to https://rawzieyewear.com) are still essential while outside to protect your whole eye from UV rays.
What is the recovery process like before resuming swimming and diving?
After EVO ICL surgery, patients must wait at least one week before returning to swimming or scuba diving to allow for proper healing. During the first week, it’s important to keep water, specifically from a pool, hot tub, ocean or lake out of the eyes to reduce the risk of infection. Generally taking a shower is safe during the first week, but no soap in the eyes. Dr. Waite evaluates each patient individually and provides specific guidelines based on their activity level and overall eye health. Once cleared, patients can return to full participation in aquatic sports without restrictions, unlike contact lens wearers who must remain cautious about water exposure.
Are you ready to take the next step in your vision journey?
How does EVO ICL interact with water pressure and underwater equipment?
EVO ICL remains stable under water pressure and does not interfere with the use of goggles or dive masks, which is a significant advantage for competitive swimmers and scuba divers. Because the lens is implanted inside the eye and designed for long-term biocompatibility, it cannot shift or be compressed by external gear. Contact lenses, on the other hand, may shift, fog up, or be washed out by high-pressure water environments. EVO ICL gives athletes the confidence to focus on performance without adjusting or worrying about their vision.
Is EVO ICL a good long-term solution for swimmers and divers with vision problems?
EVO ICL is a strong long-term solution for swimmers and divers with myopia or astigmatism because it corrects vision without ongoing maintenance or exposure risks associated with contact lenses or glasses. It avoids issues like irritation, bacteria, or displacement while delivering clear and stable vision that holds up under the demands of aquatic sports. For those looking to avoid repeated eye exams for new prescriptions or the daily hassle of corrective lenses, EVO ICL offers lasting freedom and convenience, especially for those who spend regular time in the water.
Why do athletes prefer EVO ICL over glasses and contacts in water sports?
Athletes prefer EVO ICL over glasses and contact lenses because it allows them to swim, dive, and train without interference or health concerns. Glasses are not compatible with water sports, and contact lenses pose risks including irritation, infection, and lens loss. EVO ICL eliminates these concerns, enabling patients to focus on performance and comfort. Dr. Waite frequently recommends EVO ICL as a solution for athletes who need reliable and maintenance-free vision correction for their active lifestyles.
Ready to experience EVO ICL for yourself?
Waite Vision offers swimmers, divers, and water sports enthusiasts a personalized approach to permanent vision correction. If you’re tired of the limitations that glasses and contacts create in the pool or ocean, EVO ICL may be the solution. Dr. Waite will evaluate your candidacy and provide recommendations tailored to your eye and health needs. Schedule a consultation with Waite Vision today to find out if EVO ICL is the right fit for your lifestyle.
source https://www.waitevision.com/icl-utah/evo-icl-for-swimmers-and-divers-what-you-need-to-know/