Frequently Asked Questions about NearVision CK™
General Questions About NearVision CK™
Who is NearVision CK™ right for?
You're likely a good candidate for NearVision CK™ if you:
- Are over age 40
- Had great vision your whole life
- Require reading glasses to compensate for fading near vision
Can NearVision CK™ treat myopia (nearsightedness)?
NearVision CK™ was designed for baby boomers who struggle to read menus, price tags or see their computer — symptoms of fading near vision which require a steepening of the cornea . NearVision CK™ is not designed to flatten the cornea , the effect required for the treatment of myopia . If the technician feels you could benefit from an alternate procedure she will discuss this with you.
What are the risks and side effects of NearVision CK™
Because NearVision CK™ is minimally invasive, the procedure has exhibited very minimal risk and almost no side effects. The following symptoms are normal and will subside with time:
- Tearing and some discomfort, including a foreign-object sensation in the eye(s)
for 3 to 4 days - Slight over-correction of your vision, which stabilizes during the following weeks
- Glare or halos, especially when driving at night, for about 1 month
- “Smeary vision” (like dirty glasses) for about 1 month
What enables NearVision CK™ to be performed in-office?
NearVision CK™ is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require cutting of the cornea , and therefore does not carry the associated risks or surgical complications. The procedure is relatively quick and easy to perform.
Questions About Surgery
How is NearVision CK™ performed?
NearVision CK™ uses radio waves, instead of a laser or scalpel, to reshape the cornea and bring near vision back into focus. NearVision CK™ is performed using a special single-use probe, thinner than a strand of human hair, that releases radio waves. The probe is applied in a circular pattern on the outer cornea to shrink small areas of collagen. This circular shrinkage pattern creates a constrictive band (like the tightening of a belt), increasing the overall curvature of the cornea .
The procedure, which takes less than three minutes, is done in-office with only topical anesthesia (eye drops).
Why doesn't NearVision CK™ use a laser?
NearVision CK™ is a non-laser procedure that uses controlled radio waves to improve near vision. Rather than removing tissue with a laser, NearVision CK™ simply shrinks peripheral corneal tissue without any cutting or tissue destruction.
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, pain control and even cardiovascular procedures.
Will the instrument used in the NearVision CK™ procedure penetrate my cornea ?
The probe, introduced into the cornea , applies controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy, stabilizes the CK™ procedure and guarantees the precise depth of treatment. The technology used during the procedure was engineered and designed specifically for performing NearVision CK™. This means that the precise amount of RF energy needed to affect the corneal tissue, at the precise tissue temperature and depth of treatment, were meticulously investigated and defined. The Keratoplast™ Tip penetrates 3/4 of the cornea , is partially retracted. The radiofrequency is then administered and the probe is completely withdrawn.
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.
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.
After Surgery
Will my vision improve immediately after the NearVision CK™ procedure?
Patients usually notice improvement in their near vision soon 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 to 3 months.
Will I have to wear patches over my eyes after the NearVision CK™ procedure?
You will not have to wear patches or bandages.
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.
Are there restrictions after having NearVision CK™
As with any vision treatment procedure where the cornea is altered, certain precautions should be taken. Most patients feel well enough to work and/or drive after 1 or 2 days. If you are unsure, just call our office with your questions. There are a few guidelines you should also consider:
Avoid eye makeup for 3 to 4 days after the procedure- Avoid swimming in pools for 1 week
- Avoid swimming in lakes or the ocean for 2 to 3 weeks
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for 2 weeks
- Wear eye protection in situations such as contact sports
- Sweat should be kept out of the eyes for at least a 1 week
When do I start my drops?
On the day of your surgery, you will be given two prescription eye drops to use for four times a day for three days postoperatively.
Artificial tears can be used as required.
What care am I responsible for after the surgery?
You will come back 1 week after your procedure for a post-op exam with the doctor. Thereafter, you will be seen at 6 weeks and if necessary, 3 months post-op.
Additional Questions
Is NearVision CK™ reversible?
As with most vision correction procedures, NearVision CK™ is not reversible. Once the procedure has been performed, it is not possible to "remove" its effects except with a laser or lens implant procedure. This is an important factor for anyone thinking about undergoing a vision correction procedure to carefully consider.
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.
Can NearVision CK™ be performed on patients who have a pacemaker?
The NearVision CK™ equipment can produce interference that may adversely influence the operation of other electronic equipment. Therefore, NearVision CK™ is contraindicated for patients who are wearing a pacemaker.
What tests or appointments will I have prior to surgery?
The necessary eye measurements will be performed at your first visit with the technician. Your second visit will be with the doctor. The doctor will do an eye exam and proceed with surgery the same day if you are a candidate.
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