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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 small 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).
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.
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 sometimes notice an immediate improvement in their near vision after the NearVision CK procedure. However, it usually takes several weeks for the eyes to adjust to the final level of treatment. Depending on age, you may still need mild reading glasses for prolonged reading, fine print, or dim light.
Will my vision fluctuate after NearVision CK is performed?
Most patients will experience mild fluctuation in their vision after the procedure. 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. This eye becomes clearer at near and blurrier for far. 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 (eyedrops).
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. Driving at night may be difficult for the first few weeks.
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.
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 reshapes the cornea using an entirely different method: the application of low-level, radiofrequency (RF) energy applied in a circular pattern on the outer cornea, to shrink small areas of corneal tissue. This circular pattern acts like a belt tightening around the cornea to increase its overall curvature and bring life’s details back into focus. The procedure, which takes less than three minutes, is done in-office with only topical anesthesia (eye drops).
Will the instrument used in the NearVision CK procedure penetrate my cornea?
NearVision CK is performed using a probe (Keratoplast™ Tip) that is as thin as a strand of human hair. The probe, introduced into the cornea, applies controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy, stabilizes the CK procedure and guarantees the precise depth of treatment.
How is a precise amount of RF energy and depth of treatment ensured during the NearVision CK procedure?
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.
What are the risks and side effects of NearVision CK?
Because NearVision CK doesn’t cut or remove tissue, it is minimally invasive, and the procedure has exhibited very minimal medical risks. During the first 24 to 48 hours after NearVision CK, you may experience tearing and some discomfort, including a foreign-object sensation in the eyes. Most of the side effects have to do with monovision, or having one eye clearer for near and the other for distance. Some people experience a decrease in depth perception, a decrease in distance vision, or glare at night with monovision. You may also experience initial slight over-correction or astigmatism which causes blurry distance vision that improves over the following weeks. Not infrequently, a “touch up” is required and included in these first few months. Rarely, laser vision correction or a contact lens may be recommended for improved vision. Many patients will feel a loss of reading vision as they age, and may need a touch up at a later date at a reduced fee.
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 baths, swimming pools, spas, lakes and the ocean. Females should also avoid applying eye makeup for three days after the procedure. No eyepads or shields are required.
Am I guaranteed 20/20 vision following NearVision CK?
No. And no honest doctor can absolutely guarantee a certain result from any vision treatment procedure. However, in the FDA clinical study, nearly 87% of patients had 20/20 vision while looking at objects in the distance and were able to read phonebook-size print (J3) after having NearVision CK using both eyes (12-month follow-up data).
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, but the effects may diminish over time. Laser vision correction usually can be used to fine tune the vision more accurately if there is a problem. 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. Financing options are available to make NearVision CK more affordable. For more information about financing, ask our administrative staff at Fairfield County Laser Vision..
Who is NearVision CK right for?
You’re likely a good candidate for NearVision CK if you: - Are over age 45
- Had great vision your whole life
- Require reading glasses to compensate for fading near vision
Through a consultation with Dr. Mandava you will be able to determine if NearVision CK is right for you.
Can NearVision CK treat myopia (nearsightedness)?
No. 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.
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, we do not perform NearVision CK for patients who are wearing a pacemaker.
What enables NearVision CK to be performed in-office?
Near Vision 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 — taking an average of just 3 minutes.
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