CK is a
procedure designed to treat farsightedness without using a laser. CK
uses the controlled release of radiofrequency energy, instead
of a laser or scalpel, to reshape the cornea. Your Rochester CK
surgeon performs CK using a probe as thin as a human
strand of hair, which releases radiofrequency energy, shrinking the
tissue to increase the curvature of the cornea. CK
applies radio waves 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), correctly reshaping the cornea
as needed to improve vision. Many CK surgeons are using
CK to reduce the need for reading glasses.
The Benefits of CK
CK is a safe, minimally invasive alternative procedure to laser for
farsighted patients.
CK is fast: The procedure
is performed in just under 3 minutes.
CK is convenient and comfortable:
The procedure is performed in-office with only topical (eye drops) anesthesia.
Because CK is performed without
the cutting or removal of tissue, it meets the needs of the risk-adverse
patient who's been waiting for a safe, less invasive procedure for farsightedness.
CK does not require a surgical
facility – it can be performed right in your doctor’s office.
CK is one of the first procedures
designed specifically for farsightedness and many CK surgeons are using
it to reduce the need for reading glasses.
Because CK is minimally invasive
and very controlled, the procedure has very few surgical complications.
What
to Expect on Surgery Day
First, your eye will be completely numbed with powerful eye drop anesthesia.
When your eye is completely numb, your Rochester CK surgeon will place
an eyelid holder between your eyelids to keep you from blinking during
the procedure.
Then either sitting upright
as if undergoing an eye exam or lying back, you'll be asked to look
at the microscope light. Your eye will be marked with a series of dots.
Your surgeon will touch the dots with the probe making a full circle
around the outer margins of the cornea. There will be eight to 32 treatment
points, depending on the amount of correction needed. As the dots are
touched, the radio waves shrink the tissue, producing a belt tightening
effect that creates a more curved cornea. Some patients elect to have
only one eye treated to give them monovision.
Soon after the procedure,
your Rochester CK surgeon will examine your eyes and you will go home and
relax for the rest of the day. For the first couple of days, you may
experience some scratchiness in your eyes, or excessive watering. This
rapidly improves and medications can be taken to relieve any discomfort.
Normal activities are generally resumed within a day or two. While many
patients see improvement in their near vision immediately after the
procedure, it usually takes a few weeks to several months for the results
to be fully realized. Serious complications with CK are extremely rare.
If
you meet the requirements for CK candidacy,
see how this procedure can benefit you.
