If you were excited about the idea of clear vision without glasses or contacts, it can feel like a setback to learn you’re not a candidate for LASIK. But don’t worry—LASIK isn’t the only option when it comes to long-term vision correction. At Skyline LASIK in Colorado Springs, we specialize in matching each patient with the procedure that best suits their eyes, lifestyle, and goals.
Let’s explore some LASIK alternatives that might be right for you.
EVO ICL: A Lens Based Option
EVO ICL surgery is a vision correction procedure where a biocompatible lens is implanted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens to correct nearsightedness, with or without astigmatism. Compared to LASIK, EVO ICL does not involve reshaping the cornea and is removable if necessary, offering a reversible alternative for those who may not be ideal candidates for laser eye surgery.
EVO ICL can:
- Treat nearsightedness with or without astigmatism
- Be removed or replaced later in life if the need arises
- Provide UV protection
Best for: Individuals between the ages of 21 and 45 with thin corneas and/or high prescriptions who prefer the option of a reversible vision correction procedure.
PRK: A Trusted LASIK Alternative
Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) was actually the original laser vision correction surgery, and it’s still an excellent option today—especially for patients with thin corneas or mild dry eye symptoms that make LASIK less suitable.
Here’s how it works:
- The epithelium, or outer layer of the cornea, is gently removed.
- A laser is used to reshape underlying corneal tissue to correct your vision.
- The surface layer then naturally regenerates over a few days.
While recovery takes a bit longer than LASIK, PRK offers long-term results and avoids the flap created during LASIK, which some patients prefer.
Best for: Adults 18+ with a stable prescription and certain corneal characteristics that make LASIK a less ideal option.
Trusted Source
What Is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)?
American Academy of Ophthalmology
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RLE: A Vision Correction Option Beyond LASIK
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a great choice for adults—typically over 40—who are noticing age-related changes in their vision or have early signs of cataracts. During RLE, your eye’s natural lens is replaced with a custom intraocular lens (IOL)
Trusted Source
Refractive Lens Exchange
Cleveland Clinic
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, similar to what’s used in cataract surgery.
RLE can:
- Reduce your dependence on reading glasses or bifocals
- Correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
- Prevent cataracts from developing in the future
Trusted Source
Refractive lens exchange in younger and older presbyopes: comparison of complication rates, 3 months clinical and patient-reported outcomes.
Clinical Ophthalmology
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Best for: Patients over 40, especially those who want to reduce their need for reading glasses or are experiencing presbyopia (age-related near vision loss).
What’s Next?
If you’ve been told LASIK isn’t right for you, don’t give up on clear vision. Our team at Skyline LASIK offers personalized evaluations and will help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s PRK, RLE, or another solution, we’re here to help you take the next step. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
Citations
1 American Academy of Ophthalmology. What Is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)? https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/photorefractive-keratectomy-prk. Accessed April 11, 2025.
2 Cleveland Clinic. Refractive Lens Exchange. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24840-refractive-lens-exchange. Accessed April 11, 2025.
3 Clinical Ophthalmology. Refractive lens exchange in younger and older presbyopes: comparison of complication rates, 3 months clinical and patient-reported outcomes. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5584899/#. Accessed April 11, 2025.
