Competitive and recreational swimmers and divers face unique challenges when it comes to vision correction. Glasses are incompatible with aquatic sports, and contact lenses can lead to discomfort, instability, and serious health risks when exposed to water. In a new resource titled “EVO ICL for Swimmers and Divers: What You Need to Know“, Waite Vision provides detailed information about how EVO ICL offers a safe, effective, and long-term solution for athletes who rely on clear, stable vision both above and below the surface.
EVO ICL, or Implantable Collamer Lens, is a vision correction procedure in which a thin, biocompatible lens is placed inside the eye, between the iris and the natural lens. Unlike LASIK, EVO ICL does not reshape the cornea with a laser, making it an excellent option for patients with myopia or astigmatism, including those with thin or irregular corneas. Because the prescription is built into the lens and the lens is completely internal, patients experience permanent, maintenance-free vision correction that is unaffected by water exposure, pressure changes, or movement. This stability is especially valuable for athletes competing in high-pressure aquatic environments, such as deep dives or competitive swimming events.
One of the most significant advantages of EVO ICL for swimmers and divers is its safety in water. Contact lenses, which rest on the surface of the eye, can trap bacteria, viruses, or parasites like Acanthamoeba, which are often present in pool water, lakes, and oceans. This can result in painful and potentially vision-threatening infections. EVO ICL eliminates this risk because the lens is placed inside the eye and sealed away from external contaminants. Once the initial healing process is complete—typically within a week—patients can return to swimming, scuba diving, and other water sports without the restrictions or concerns associated with contact lenses.
Vision stability is another critical factor for athletes in aquatic sports. Contact lenses can shift, cloud, or even wash out under water, disrupting performance and forcing wearers to make constant adjustments. EVO ICL provides consistent, high-quality vision that remains unchanged regardless of water pressure, movement, or lighting conditions. Whether competing in a pool or exploring open water, patients can focus fully on their sport without worrying about their corrective lenses.
For outdoor athletes, EVO ICL also offers built-in UV protection thanks to the Collamer material used in the lens. Prolonged sun exposure, particularly in reflective environments like water, increases the risk of long-term eye damage. EVO ICL provides consistent and complete UV protection without requiring special contact lenses. Waite Vision still recommends pairing the procedure with high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect the entire eye from sun exposure.
Recovery from EVO ICL surgery is straightforward, with most patients able to return to aquatic activities after one week, provided the eyes have healed and no complications are present. During the first week, it is essential to keep pool, ocean, lake, or hot tub water out of the eyes to minimize the risk of infection. Dr. Waite evaluates each patient individually and provides specific guidance on when it is safe to resume swimming, diving, or other water sports. Once cleared, patients can participate in these activities without restrictions.
For athletes who want to eliminate the ongoing expense and maintenance of glasses or contact lenses, EVO ICL offers a reliable solution. Patients no longer need to budget for frequent eye exams, prescription updates, or the constant replacement of corrective lenses. Instead, they enjoy the freedom of clear vision without the physical and practical limitations of traditional eyewear.
Dr. Aaron Waite, founder of Waite Vision, frequently recommends EVO ICL for athletes engaged in aquatic sports because it offers lasting freedom and confidence. “Our swimmer and diver patients often tell us it’s life-changing,” said Dr. Waite. “They no longer have to deal with the hassle, irritation, or risks that come with contacts or the incompatibility of glasses in the water. EVO ICL gives them clear, stable vision and the freedom to focus entirely on their performance.”
By providing clear, science-based information on EVO ICL for swimmers and divers, Waite Vision aims to help athletes and active individuals make informed decisions about their vision correction options. Those considering EVO ICL can schedule a consultation to determine whether they are a good candidate and to learn how the procedure can be tailored to meet their specific visual and lifestyle needs.
For more information about “EVO ICL for Swimmers and Divers: What You Need to Know” or to schedule an interview with Dr. Waite, visit Waite Vision’s website or call the office directly.
