ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery at Washington Eye Institute
For patients with moderate to high myopia who are not ideal candidates for laser vision correction, ICL surgery offers a proven, reversible path to clear vision. Washington Eye Institute provides EVO Visian ICL procedures at our Greenbelt, Rockville, and Cumberland, Maryland locations, performed by fellowship-trained refractive surgeon Dr. Joseph Mekhail.
4M+
ICLs Implanted Worldwide
99%
Patients Would Choose EVO ICL Again
Based on STAAR Surgical EVO ICL FDA clinical trial data and published patient satisfaction studies.
ICL Refractive Surgery Specialists
What Is ICL Surgery?
For patients with moderate to high myopia who are not ideal candidates for laser vision correction, ICL surgery offers a proven, reversible path to clear vision. Washington Eye Institute provides EVO Visian ICL procedures at our Greenbelt, Rockville, and Cumberland, Maryland locations, performed by experienced refractive surgeons Dr. Michael Summerfield and Dr. Joseph Mekhail.
ICL surgery involves placing a small, biocompatible lens behind the iris and in front of the natural crystalline lens. Unlike laser procedures that permanently reshape the cornea, the ICL is an additive lens that works with your eye's existing anatomy to correct refractive errors. The lens remains inside the eye indefinitely but can be removed or replaced if your vision needs change over time.
The procedure is specifically designed for patients with myopia (nearsightedness) and can also correct astigmatism. Because no corneal tissue is removed during the procedure, the structural integrity of the cornea is fully preserved.
Refractive Surgery Focus
Our surgeon specializes in implantable lens procedures and advanced vision correction for lasting results.
Advanced Lens Technology
We use the latest EVO Visian ICL technology with precision diagnostics to deliver optimal visual outcomes for every patient.
ICL Surgery in Expert Hands
Dr. Joseph Mekhail brings fellowship-trained refractive surgery expertise to every ICL procedure at Washington Eye Institute. As a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cornea and refractive surgery, Dr. Mekhail provides expert EVO Visian ICL implantation for patients seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses through this advanced, reversible vision correction procedure.
Fellowship Trained
Cornea & Refractive Specialist
University of California Fellowship
3 Maryland Locations
EVO Visian ICL Certified
Personally Involved
Fellowship-Trained Cornea & Refractive Surgeon
ICL Refractive Specialist
Dr. Joseph Mekhail is a skilled refractive surgeon at Washington Eye Institute specializing in EVO Visian ICL implantation. With a patient-centered approach and advanced diagnostic capabilities, Dr. Mekhail delivers outstanding vision correction results for patients with moderate to high myopia.
Refractive Surgery Training
Advanced fellowship, cornea and refractive surgery
Patient-Centered Care
Personalized treatment plans, tailored to each patient's needs
Proven Outcomes
Exceptional visual acuity results & high patient satisfaction rates
Comprehensive Experience
Extensive training in ICL & advanced refractive procedures
Board Certified Ophthalmologist & ICL Specialist
Our Ophthalmology Team
Is ICL Surgery Right for Your Vision?
ICL surgery is an excellent option for many adults with moderate to high myopia (about -3.0 to -20.0 diopters), especially if they do not qualify for LASIK due to thin corneas, high prescriptions, or dry eye. The EVO Visian ICL is also approved to correct astigmatism.
Ideal candidates have a stable prescription for at least one year, adequate anterior chamber depth, and healthy eyes free from glaucoma or significant cataracts. A comprehensive evaluation at Washington Eye Institute will determine your candidacy.
The EVO Visian ICL has been implanted in over 4 million eyes worldwide with an outstanding safety and satisfaction profile.
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Advanced Vision Treatments
Washington Eye Institute offers a full range of refractive and vision correction procedures alongside ICL surgery.
EVO Visian ICL Implantation for Clear Vision
The EVO Visian ICL is a soft, flexible lens made of Collamer, a biocompatible material that works in harmony with your natural eye. Placed behind the iris through a tiny micro-incision, the lens provides immediate vision correction without altering the corneal surface.
Unlike LASIK, the ICL procedure is fully reversible. The lens includes built-in UV protection and is unlikely to cause the dry eye symptoms sometimes associated with corneal refractive procedures. Many patients notice significantly improved vision within the first day, though full visual stabilization may take several days to weeks.
How ICL Surgery Works
Evaluation & Imaging
Comprehensive eye measurements including corneal topography and anterior chamber depth analysis.
Lens Customization
Your custom EVO Visian ICL is manufactured to your exact prescription and eye dimensions.
Micro-Incision Implantation
The folded ICL is inserted through a tiny incision, then gently unfolded and positioned behind the iris.
Rapid Visual Recovery
Most patients notice significantly improved vision within the first few days, and vision continues to fine‑tune over the following weeks.
Signs You May Benefit from ICL Surgery
If you experience any of the following, you may be an excellent candidate for EVO Visian ICL surgery at Washington Eye Institute.
Advanced ICL Technology
Washington Eye Institute invests in the latest refractive surgery technology to deliver precise, safe, and effective ICL outcomes.
EVO Visian ICL Platform
The latest generation Collamer lens with built-in UV protection and aquaport technology
Corneal Topography System
High-resolution corneal mapping for precise ICL sizing and surgical planning
Anterior Segment OCT
Cross-sectional imaging of the anterior chamber for safe lens positioning
Wavefront Aberrometry
Detailed measurement of optical imperfections to optimize visual quality
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ICL surgery painful?
Most patients report little to no pain during ICL surgery. Topical anesthetic eye drops are applied before the procedure to numb the eye. Patients typically describe feeling mild pressure but no significant discomfort during the implantation, which takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Any minor discomfort after surgery usually resolves within a few hours.
How long does the ICL last?
The ICL is designed to remain in the eye permanently. The Collamer material does not degrade or break down over time, and the lens does not require maintenance or replacement under normal circumstances. If your prescription changes significantly or a new treatment becomes available, the lens can be removed or exchanged by your surgeon.
Can I still develop cataracts with an ICL?
Yes, cataracts are a natural part of aging and can still develop regardless of whether you have an ICL. If cataracts develop later in life, the ICL is usually removed during cataract surgery, but as with any eye procedure, some risk remains. Future cataract surgery is still possible after ICL implantation, but it requires specific planning by a surgeon experienced with ICLs.
Will other people be able to see the ICL in my eye?
No. The ICL is positioned behind the iris, making it completely invisible to others. Unlike contact lenses, which sit on the surface of the eye, the ICL cannot be seen or felt once it is in place. There are no cosmetic changes to the appearance of your eye after surgery.
How soon can I return to work after ICL surgery?
Most patients return to work within one to two days following ICL surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your occupation and recovery progress. Activities that involve heavy lifting, swimming, or exposure to dust should be avoided for approximately one to two weeks after the procedure.
Does insurance cover ICL surgery?
ICL surgery is generally considered an elective refractive procedure and is not covered by most insurance plans. However, Washington Eye Institute offers flexible financing options to help make the procedure accessible. For detailed information about ICL surgery cost and payment plans, contact our office at 301.800.7490 to speak with a patient coordinator.
Schedule Your ICL Consultation Today
Our refractive surgery team is ready to help you explore whether ICL surgery can reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses.