Conductive Keratoplasty or CK is a safe, non-laser, non-cutting technique approved by the FDA to reduce or eliminate presbyopia or hyperopia (farsightedness). Instead of a scalpel or a laser, CK releases radiofrequency (RF) energy through a probe as thin as a strand of human hair, without cutting or removing tissue. The controlled release of RF energy in a circular pattern shrinks tissue in the cornea to reshape it, improving the way the eye focuses light.

CK was the first FDA-approved method for treating hyperopia. It is safer and less invasive than the LASIK procedure and avoids the complications associated with LASIK treatment such as dry eye, hazy vision, light sensitivity or poor quality of vision. It takes less than five minutes per eye and uses only a topical anesthetic. Post-operative discomfort is minimal and vision improves almost immediately.

Wearing glasses or contact lenses for presbyopia or hyperopia (farsightedness) can be a thing of the past with NearVision CK.

Learn more about CK at http://www.refractec.com/

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

Will you be 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.

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 long does the procedure take?

The procedure, which takes less than three minutes, is done in-office with only topical anesthesia (eye drops).

Will I have to wear patches over my eyes after the NearVision CK procedure?

You will not have to wear patches or bandages.

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).

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.

After the NearVision CK procedure, patients should avoid getting contaminated water in their eyes for at least one week. This includes water from swimming pools, spas, lakes and the ocean. When showering or taking baths, patients should keep their eyes closed in order to avoid getting soap and dirty water into their eyes.

When exercising, sweat should be kept out of the eyes for at least a week after the procedure.

Also, patients should avoid rubbing their eyes vigorously for two weeks following the procedure. Females should also avoid applying eye makeup for one week after 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 NearVision CK more affordable. For more information about financing, ask your doctor.

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