Conductive Keratoplasty (CK-get rid of your reading glasses)
NearVision CK
Conductive Keratoplasty involves the use of a small probe, thinner than a strand of human hair, to apply controlled RF energy to the edge of the cornea in a ring pattern. This circular pattern creates a band of tightening that increases the overall curvature of the cornea. The procedure takes less than 3 minutes per eye and is painless, involving only topical anesthetic administered by eye drops. This revolutionary procedure is performed using the ViewPoint CK System, the only technology approved by the FDA for improving near vision in baby boomer patients. Although CK eye surgery is relatively new, RF energy has been used in other types of surgery since the 1950’s.
NearVision CK is the first procedure developed specifically for baby boomers who have had clear vision all their life, but now struggle with reading glasses. Unlike LASIK and some of the other laser vision correction procedures, CK uses minimally-invasive radiofrequency (RF) energy instead of a laser to change the shape of the cornea. CK does not require any cutting or removal of corneal tissue and meets the needs of patients who may not like the thought of traditional LASIK surgery.
Problems with near vision:
If you are having problems focusing on things like your newspaper, watch or computer screen, you are not alone. Millions of people over the age of 40 are losing their near vision as part of the natural aging process. If you find yourself constantly reaching for reading glasses then CK may be for you. You’re a CK candidate if you are over 40 and:
- Had great vision your whole life
- Are tired of the hassle of reading glasses
- Have difficulty focusing on things up close
- Have no health issues affecting your eyes
Blended Vision- The Best of Both Worlds
CK takes advantage of a technique called Blended Vision. Unlike monovision (where one eye is treated for near vision, leaving the untreated eye for distance vision), Blended Vision improves your ability to focus on near objects without dramatically affecting distance vision in the treated eye. Data collected in FDA clinical trials on the CK Blended Vision procedure have shown relatively little effect on depth perception or the ability to distinguish contrast under day and night conditions after the CK procedure.
Find out if CK is right for you. Email or call The Nielsen Eye Center at 617-471-5665 and find out why thousands of people in New England trust their vision to us.
"Dear Dr. Nielsen;
My wife, Sarah, and I would like to express our gratitude for changing our lives through the Lasik and CK laser eye surgeries! This letter is long overdue (only because without glasses, I've been out having the time of my life!). I have to admit; at first I was very uncomfortable with idea of eye surgery. While I thought it was an amazing concept, thinking about all the "what ifs" was nerve wracking. You and your amazing staff made our experiences comfortable, imformative, and literally, life altering.
Sarah underwent the Lasik procedure before me and was so impressed with your staff and your level of care and professionalism. Her experience was flawless. My experience followed suit. Moreove, we now have incredible vision! Sarah and I continue to recommend your practice to anyone interested in the Lasik or CK procedures.
And, thank you for your support of our charitable endeavors. We truly appreciate your kidness."
Glenn Ordway
Sports Radio 850 WEEI
"Having this procedure to take away my need for reading glasses felt like the best cosmetic surgery I could have! I became dependent on my glasses, and at work that’s how people knew me. This was not a look that I liked, or that I was even familiar with since I’ve had perfect vision all my life. When someone referred to me as “the woman with glasses” I knew they had to go. I absolutely never need them now, and occasionally I find an old pair and laugh at them. One small pleasure is picking up the mail and actually being able to see it before finding glasses. I also love shopping and being able to read prices without shuffling through my bag for glasses. I am thrilled- this has felt like a small miracle!
Thank you Dr. Nielsen!"
Mary Ellen Gleason Canton MA. CK PROCEDURE PATIENT
Please take a few minutes to head to our “frequently asked questions” on Conductive Keratoplasty . We have attempted to provide you detailed information about all aspect of this special procedure.
Does CK involve cutting the cornea?
No. NearVision CK is performed without the cutting or removal of tissue. It is a safe, minimally invasive procedure for baby boomers who struggle to read a newspaper, menu, alarm clock or computer.
Is radiofrequency (RF) energy safe for use on the eye?
Yes. The use of RF energy is one of today’s most advanced surgical techniques. In addition to its use in NearVision CK, RF technology is being used in prostate cancer therapy, back surgery, even cardiovascular procedures.
Will my vision improve immediately after the NearVision CK procedure?
Patients usually notice an immediate improvement in their vision after the NearVision CK procedure. However, it usually takes several weeks for the eyes to adjust to the final level of treatment.
Will my vision fluctuate after NearVision CK is performed?
Most patients will experience mild fluctuation in their vision after the procedure, but few notice it. Any fluctuation will usually subside within a few weeks. Patients who have a procedure to steepen the cornea (presbyopia or hyperopia), regardless of the procedure, usually require a longer stabilization period than those who receive a treatment that flattens the cornea (myopia).
Are both eyes treated on the same day?
NearVision CK is typically performed on just one eye. However, if a patient’s prescription requires treatment in both eyes, CK is typically performed on both eyes on the same day — one eye immediately after the other. Most patients are comfortable having the CK procedure performed on both eyes on the same day because the procedure is minimally invasive, takes less than three minutes and is done in-office with only topical anesthesia.
How soon can I return to work?
With NearVision CK, the majority of patients are able to return to work and other normal activities the day after their procedure. Although recovery is fairly quick, it is advisable to be careful with your eyes and to avoid any strain. Those whose jobs demand intense clarity of vision (such as dentistry, surgery or computer work) may want to give their eyes some extra rest for several days following the procedure before going back to work.
What type of anesthesia is used during the NearVision CK procedure?
A local anesthetic in the form of eye drops is used to numb the eye. Those patients who are nervous or have a high level of anxiety will be given a mild sedative to help them relax.
What will I feel during the NearVision CK procedure?
The NearVision CK procedure is considered painless. You will be aware of a support (speculum), which helps to hold your eye open. The most common sensation that patients experience is a feeling of pressure on the eye. After the procedure, there may be some mild discomfort, and many patients experience a foreign-object sensation or "scratchiness" in the eye. This usually subsides within 24 hours of the procedure.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of the NearVision CK procedure?
Because NearVision CK is considered elective surgery (cosmetic), most health insurance plans do not cover it. Financing options are available to make CK more affordable. For more information about financing, ask your doctor.
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