NearVision CK
Frequently Asked Questions
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NearVision CK uses radio waves 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 very wide optical zone on the surface of the cornea in a circular pattern. This wide circular zone of treatment increases the overall curvature of the cornea and can provide excellent reading vision almost immediately after the procedure. The procedure, which takes less than three minutes, is done in-office with only topical anesthesia (eye drops) and is painless.
Will you be cutting the cornea?
No. NearVision CK is a safe and effective, minimally invasive procedure. There is no cutting or removal of tissue.
Who is a candidate for NearVision CK?
Almost any one who is over 45 years of age, who has had good vision most of their life, who hates their reading glasses or bifocals and who on exam has normal corneas and appropriate loose lens screening test. CK is especially appropriate 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 back surgery, and even in invasive cardiovascular procedures.
Will my vision improve immediately after the NearVision CK procedure?
The immediate result in visual improvement is often dramatic. However, it can take a couple of 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 NearVision CK will have even more rapid visual recovery and stabilization than hyperopic LASIK.
Are both eyes treated on the same day?
Most patients need CK in only one eye. If a patient's prescription requires treatment in both eyes, CK is typically performed on both eyes on the same day. 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.
Will I have to wear patches over my eyes after the NearVision CK procedure?
No.
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. Recovery is fast. Those whose jobs demand intense clarity of vision (such as dentistry, surgery or computer work) may want to give their eyes an additional day of rest following the procedure before going back to work.
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.
Why doesn't NearVision CK use a laser?
Most lasers remove small amounts of tissue to reshape the cornea. NearVision CK is a non-laser procedure that uses controlled radio waves. CK reshapes the cornea using an entirely different method that does not remove any tissue. The application of low-level, radiofrequency (RF) energy is applied in a very wide circular pattern on the outer cornea which tightens the tissue.
What are the risks and side effects of NearVision CK?
Because NearVision CK is minimally invasive and is placed in a wide optical zone, the procedure has exhibited very minimal risk and almost no side effects in the FDA Clinical Trials. 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. You may also experience initial slight over-correction of your vision, which stabilizes during the following weeks. However, because NearVision CK doesn't cut or remove tissue, many of the side effects associated with other vision treatment procedures have not been observed with NearVision CK.
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. Patients should avoid rubbing their eyes vigorously for two weeks following the procedure. Females should also avoid applying eye makeup for one week.
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 (12-month follow-up data).
If I have had LASIK or PRK, can I have NearVision CK?
Yes.
Schedule your appointment at our Denver or Fort Collins office.
303-486-2020
Offering two convenient locations to serve you in Denver and Fort Collins, Colorado, Dr. Paul Cutarelli and his refractive team guide patients through the most appropriate and effective procedures for their individual situations. Please call the following phone numbers for inquires, requests for further information, a brochure, or to arrange your free consultation:
Office Hours
Monday through Friday: 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. MSTSaturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. MST |
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Cutarelli Vision Denver 7887 E. Belleview Avenue, Suite 180 Denver (Englewood), Colorado 80111 303-486-2020 |
Cutarelli Vision Fort Collins 2105 Bighorn Road, Suite 106 Fort Collins, Colorado 80525 970-225-2300 |
