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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)

June 08, 2009 @ 08:02 PM — by admin
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Conductive keratoplasty (CK) is a popular way to improve a person’s vision through the use of controlled radio frequency. If you’re wondering how this procedure is performed, you’re in luck. Read the following list of frequently asked questions about conductive keratoplasty (CK).

How is conductive keratoplasty (CK) performed?

With conductive keratoplasty (CK) radio waves is used instead of a laser or scalpel to reshape the cornea, which will bring near vision back. A small probe is used, which is thinner than a piece of human hair and releases the radio waves. By applying the probe in a circular pattern on the outer cornea cause small areas of collagen to shrink. The circular pattern creates a constrictive bank, similar to the tightening of a belt, which increase the curvature of the cornea. Time elapsed for the procedure is only three minutes and is performed in the office on an outpatient basis. A topical anesthesia is used, and the patient is allowed to walk out the same day.

Will you be cutting the cornea?

No. This procedure is performed without the need of tissue removal. It is a safe and minimally invasive procedure for those who struggle to read a newspaper, menu or alarm clock.

Is radio frequency energy safe for use on the eye?

Yes. The use of radio frequency energy is one of the most advanced techniques being used today. Radio frequency energy is not only being used in vision correction but is also being used in prostate cancer therapy, back surgery, and even cardiovascular procedures.

Will my vision improve immediately after CK is performed?

Patients notice an improvement in their vision immediately following the CK procedure. However, normally is takes several weeks for the eye to adjust to the final level of treatment.

Will my vision fluctuate after CK is performed?

The majority of patients will experience mild fluctuations in their vision following the procedure. However, very few of them will notice the fluctuations. As a rule fluctuations will subside in a few weeks. Patients receiving treatment for hyperopia or presbyopia will normally require a longer stabilization period regardless of the type of procedure performed.

Am I guaranteed 20/20 vision following the procedure?

No. An honest doctor cannot guarantee a certain result from any of the vision treatments. However, in the clinical studies performed by the FDA, nearly 87 percent of patients had 20/20 vision when looking at objects from a distance and they were able to read a phonebook-size print. This data was collected during the 12-month follow up visit. For more information on CK as well as LASIK surgery, PRK, the ReSTOR® intraocular lens, and other eye care issues, it is important to schedule a consultation at Omaha, Nebraska LASIK surgery practice.

Who Are and Aren’t Candidates for LASIK?

June 04, 2009 @ 03:01 PM — by admin
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If you are considering LASIK eye surgery, you will have to qualify as a candidate for the procedure. First you must meet the physical health and age standard for the particular procedure you are considering. You must understand the procedure and be aware of the risks and possible side effects. The standard guidelines may help you estimate your suitability for surgery. A consultation with a LASIK surgeon is necessary to determine if you are or are not a candidate. The physical, health, and age requirements include that the patient must be18 years of age and have healthy eyes, a stable eyeglass prescription for at least one year, and a vision within the correctable range of the procedure you have chosen. Most procedures cannot be performed if you have a history of autoimmune disease, are pregnant or nursing, have a history of eye disease or previous eye injury, and take prescription medications that may effect the healing of the cornea or vision. It is essential that you read all the literature your ophthalmologist gives you thoroughly, and ask questions on anything you don’t understand and need additional explanations. Make sure to read the consent form and make sure you understand it before you sign it. You should also be aware that refractive procedures do not stop the natural changes that occur as the eye ages. An example of this is presbyopia, which is the loss of close-up focusing ability. This happens to most people over the age of 40. Corrective lenses or another laser procedure is needed to correct this problem. Your surgeon will also cover any risks and possible side effects of the procedure you will be receiving. Usual side effects associated with laser eye surgery include visual abnormalities. With some procedures, patients have reported seeing halos or starburst around lights at night, which can create havoc with night vision. Dry eye is another side effect of LASIK surgery. Symptoms of dry eye are common for many patients following surgery and can be relieved with the use of artificial tears. Many times the condition goes away on its own during the weeks or even months after the surgery. If the patient had dry eye prior to the surgery, dry eye will become a persistent problem. Some patients experience some discomfort during surgery and some eye irritation after surgery. Some patients have reported sensitivity to lights for a few days following the surgery. With some procedures the patient will see immediate results of better vision once the surgery is performed. However, with other procedures the results may not be noticeable for a few days or weeks. There are other side effects not listed here, so make sure you read the literature provided by the surgeon. This will enable you to weigh the risks against the benefits when making your decision about whether or not to have the procedure. To learn more about LASIK surgery as well as PRK, conductive keratoplasty (CK), and ReSTOR® intraocular lenses, it is important to visit our Omaha, Nebraska LASIK surgery practice.

How effective is LASIK eye surgery?

April 07, 2009 @ 03:07 PM — by admin
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Before an individual decides to undergo LASIK eye surgery, the individual will ask himself a number of questions. The first and most important question is "How effective is LASIK eye surgery?" Needless to say, if the answer is not a positive one, the answers to all the other questions become irrelevant. After all, what value would LASIK eye surgery possess if it was not an effective procedure? Thankfully, we know that LASIK eye surgery is an extremely effective procedure thanks to the positive results of scores upon scores of patients that have undergone the surgery. Based upon statistical data, only 1 percent of all individuals who undergo LASIK eye surgery reported complications. Clearly, that would imply that 99 percent of the patients were pleased with the results and reported no negative side effects or problems. And, keep in mind the number of people who undergo LASIK eye surgery is significant. Well over 1 million people in America alone had LASIK surgery performed. With such a high percentage of successful patients, it would be safe to say that LASIK eye surgery is a safe and effective procedure. Of course, the results and levels of effectiveness will vary from individual to individual. Not everyone who undergoes LASIK eye surgery will achieve 20/20 vision. Yes, many scores of people will achieve perfect vision as a result of the procedure, but not everyone. Many of the patients will end up with "only" 20/40 vision. Of course, 20/40 is a dramatic improvement over 20/100 or worse vision. So, while it is impossible to guarantee your vision will be perfect after the procedure, it is a fairly safe bet to say it will be improved dramatically. Specific questions regarding the effectiveness of the LASIK procedure should be discussed with a qualified eye surgeon. However, it is safe to say the LASIK procedure is relatively safe and effective. The results speak for themselves. To learn more about LASIK as well as PRK, conductive keratoplasty (CK), and ReSTOR® intraocular lenses, it is important to visit our Omaha, Nebraska LASIK surgery practice.

Ways to Prevent Cataracts

March 19, 2009 @ 03:43 AM — by admin
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Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to prevent certain types of cataracts from occurring in your eyes. While most cataracts are caused due to simple aging and the breakdown of protein fibers in the eyes lens, other types of cataracts which can be caused by diabetes, sunlight, and trauma to the eye can be prevented from forming.

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Many people realize the importance of protecting their skin from the suns harmful UV rays, but often fail to remember to protect their eyes as well. The suns ultraviolet rays are just as harmful to the eyes as the rest of the body, and can cause a higher risk of cataracts. When going outdoors, wear sunglasses made with UV protective lenses to help prevent cataracts from forming.

Take Your Vitamins

For years your mother stressed the importance of taking your vitamins, and she was right! Taking vitamins that are full of antioxidants such as beta carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C can help to prevent cataracts from occurring and keep your eyes healthy.

Avoid Trauma to the Eye

Using protective eyewear to prevent trauma occurring to the eye is another way to help prevent cataracts from occurring. Wearing safety glasses or goggles while doing work that could put your eyes at risk is important, and can prevent a number of injuries that could lead to cataracts forming.

Take Care of Your Diabetes

Those that suffer from diabetes are more prone to certain eye conditions than others. If you have diabetes, take good care of your blood sugar to prevent it from getting out of control. This can help to prevent the cataracts from occurring, or at the very least, slow their formation in the eye.

Avoid Prolonged Use of Certain Medications

If at all possible, avoid the long term use of certain medications such as psoriasis medications, tranquilizers, and steroidal medications. These medications have been shown in studies to actually cause cataracts to form when taking long term. If at all possible, avoid taking these medications long term, which can help to prevent cataracts from forming. For more information about cataracts as well as LASIK surgery, conductive keratoplasty (CK), and other eye care issues, we encourage you to contact our Omaha, Nebraska laser vision correction office to schedule a consultation.