Near Vision CK FAQ

How is NearVision CK performed?
- NearVision CK is performed using a small probe thinner than a strand of human hair, which releases radio waves that reshape the cornea and bring near vision back into focus. The probe is applied in a circular pattern at the mid-periphery of the cornea to shrink small areas of collagen, thus creating a constrictive band (like the tightening of a belt). This results in an increased corneal curvature that allows easier focusing when reading. NearVision CK is an outpatient procedure that generally takes less than five minutes and is done with only topical anesthesia (eye drops).
Will NearVision CK permanently eliminate my dependence on reading glasses?
- Unfortunately not. Presbyopia comes with age. NearVision CK can be thought of as just “turning back the hands of time”, not stop it all together. As the years pass by, you may start feeling the need for reading glasses again. You may opt to “turn back the hands of time” again. This naturally happens even with glasses and contact lenses.
Is radiofrequency (RF) energy safe for use on the eye?
- Yes. RF energy is used in today's most advanced surgical techniques.
Will this involve cutting into the cornea?
- No. NearVision CK is performed without the cutting or removal of tissue. It is a safe and minimally invasive procedure.
Will my vision improve immediately after the NearVision CK procedure?
- Usually, patients do notice an immediate improvement in their vision after the NearVision CK procedure. It usually takes several weeks for the eyes to adjust to the final level of treatment.
Will my vision fluctuate after NearVision CK is performed?
- Most patients will feel some mild fluctuation in their vision after the procedure. This usually subsides within a few weeks as the eyes heal and adjust.
Are both eyes treated on the same day?
- Generally, NearVision CK is performed on one eye only. However, if a patient's prescription requires treatment in both eyes, CK is usually performed on both eyes on the same day since patients are quite comfortable with this very minimally invasive procedure.
How soon can I return to work?
- Majority of patients return to work and resume normal activities the day after their procedure. Although recovery is fairly quick, we recommend that those whose jobs require a high degree of clarity of vision (such as surgery, video editing, computer work) may want to give their eyes some extra days of rest following the procedure before going back to work.
Does it hurt? What type of anesthesia is used during the NearVision CK procedure?
- The procedure is painless. The same numbing eyedrops used in cataract surgery is used in NearVision CK. Extremely nervous patients may be given a mild sedative to help them relax. After the procedure, there may be some mild discomfort, and "scratchiness" in the eye. This usually subsides within 24 hours after the procedure.
What are the side effects and risks of NearVision CK?
- During the first 24 to 48 hours after Near Vision CK, you may experience some “scratchiness”, mild discomfort and some tearing. Some initial overcorrection is also possible but this usually stabilizes within a few weeks. Since this procedure does not involve cutting or removing any tissue and stays clear of the central part of the cornea, the risks associated with other vision-correcting procedures have not been seen with NearVision CK.
Are there restrictions after having NearVision CK?
- Like any vision-correcting procedure, some precautions after surgery are necessary. Refrain from swimming or any water sports, stay away from hot tubs or saunas, and do not apply eye makeup for about a week. Keep your eyes closed when taking a bath or showering for the same duration. Also avoid vigorously rubbing your eyes for two weeks after the procedure.
Am I guaranteed 20/20 vision following NearVision CK?
- Unfortunately, no honest doctor can guarantee a certain result from any vision treatment procedure. However, almost 90 percent of patients who underwent the procedure claim to have 20/20 vision while looking at distant objects and were able to read newsprint or even smaller font sizes.
Is NearVision CK reversible?
- As with most vision correction procedures, CK is not reversible.
Can NearVision CK treat presbyopia (the need for reading glasses)?
- NearVision CK is FDA-approved for the treatment of presbyopia and low levels of hyperopia (farsightedness).
Can NearVision CK treat myopia (nearsightedness)?
- No, NearVision CK is not indicated for nearsightedness.
Can I use my PhilHealth or my HMO to pay for the surgery?
- PhilHealth deduction is not allowed as this treatment is classified as cosmetic surgery. HMO’s usually don’t pay for Near Vision CK as well.
Am I a good candidate for NearVision CK?
- You are likely a good candidate if you:
  1. Are at least 40 years of age
  2· Have had good distance vision all your life
  3· Have no eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, severe dryness, keratoconus, amblyopia (lazy eye), or macular degeneration
  4. Have had no significant changes in your eyeglass prescription over the past year
  5. Require reading glasses to compensate for difficulty in reading
Can NearVision CK be performed on patients who have a pacemaker?
- NearVision CK is contraindicated in patients wearing a pacemaker.