As a corneal and refractive specialist, Dr. Bowden is pleased to offer many options for refractive vision correction. Some eyes are not suited to laser vision correction, but would benefit from one of the many other refractive procedures performed at the skillful hands of Dr. Bowden. Perhaps you’ve been told your corneas are too thin to safely have LASIK? Or your reason for seeking refractive consultation is the desire to eliminate those reading glasses. As an adjunct to laser vision correction, Dr. Bowden may offer one of the following treatment modalities as an option to achieve your goals of minimizing or eliminating the need for glasses or contacts lenses. These treatment modalities include:
Conductive Keratoplasty:
Conductive Keratoplasty, or “CK” is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat near vision by the controlled release of radiofrequency energy to reshape the cornea. Because CK does not involve cutting or lasers, the procedure can be performed in an office setting using anesthetic drops to numb the eye. During the procedure, a tiny probe is used to direct the radio frequency in a circular pattern, causing small areas of cornea to shrink in a constrictive band. As this constrictive band tightens, much like the tightening of a belt, it creates a mild steepening of the cornea, changes the focus, and allowing clearer near vision. The procedure takes just a few minutes and the patient experiences simply a mild foreign body sensation for a day or two after the procedure. When the procedure has been completed, most patients find they can completely eliminate their glasses or contact lenses. While most patients having CK notice an immediate improvement in their near vision, the full effect of the treatment may take several weeks to several months to fully realize and appreciate.
Radio frequency being applied
Nearvision CK is tended for people over 40 who want to improve their near vision and reduce their dependence on reading glasses.
You are likely a good candidate for CK if you:
- Are over 40
- Had great vision your whole life
- Require reading glasses to compensate for fading near vision
CK is a long lasting but not a permanent solution to near vision. The effects of CK will be temporary as you become more presbyopic as a normal part of the aging process of our bodies. CK is designed for those individuals who want to delay the need of reading glasses.
