FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about CK

No. CK is performed without the cutting or removal of tissue. It is low risk, minimally invasive procedure for people who struggle to read a newspaper, menu, alarm clock, or computer.

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The use of RF energy is one of today’s most advanced surgical techniques. In addition to its use in CK, RF technology is being used in prostate cancer therapy, back surgery, and even cardiovascular procedures.

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CK is typically performed on just one eye. 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.

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A local anesthetic in the form of eye drops is used to numb the eye. These drops keeps the patient from feeling anything during the procedure.

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You will be aware of a support (speculum), which helps to hold your eye open, but because of the numbing drops this will not be uncomfortable. 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.

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CK is a procedure that uses controlled radio waves to improve near vision. Rather than reshaping tissue with a laser, 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.

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As with most vision correction procedures, CK is not reversible. Once the procedure has been performed, it is not possible to “remove” its effects. This is an important factor for anyone thinking about undergoing a vision correction procedure to carefully consider.

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Because CK is considered elective surgery (cosmetic), most health insurance plans do not cover it. Affordable monthly payment plans are available.

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CK was designed for people who struggle to read menus, price tags or see their computer — symptoms of fading near vision which require a steepening of the cornea. CK is not designed to flatten the cornea, the effect required for the treatment of myopia.

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The truth is we don’t know yet. This procedure has been performed internationally for six years, and was in USA-FDA trials for 2 years before being approved in the United States in April, 2003. In the FDA trial, 92% of the effect held through the 2-year study. But, we are tightening collagen, and we know that collagen does tend to relax over time. You may need additional spots in 5-7 years. If additional spots are needed in the first year, there will be a nominal fee for use of equipment and disposable supplies. After the first year, any retreatment needed within the next 5 years will be half our regular fee.

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With CK, we need to give you back your near vision. You still have good distance vision, but you’ve lost “stereo”, if you will. What we do with CK is leave your dominant eye alone to maintain good distance vision, and correct your non-dominant eye to give you back your near vision. We call it “blended vision” because both eyes are working together, but your brain knows which eye gets to be “the boss,” based on whether you are looking up close or far away.

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You will not have to wear patches or bandages.

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With 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 eye 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.

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Most patients will experience mild fluctuation in their vision after the procedure. Any fluctuation will usually subside within a few weeks.

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As with any vision treatment procedure where the cornea is altered, certain precautions should be taken. After the 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. Also, patients should avoid rubbing their eyes vigorously for two weeks following the procedure. Females should also avoid applying eye makeup for one week after the procedure.

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Patients usually notice an immediate improvement in their vision after the CK procedure. However, it usually takes several weeks for the eyes to adjust to the final level of treatment.

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You’ll be at our center approximately 1 hour on procedure day. The actual spots take about 3-5 minutes per eye to place. There is a gradual healing time with CK. If you have your procedure on a Friday, you’ll notice a little scratchiness that first 24-36 hours. You’ll be back to work on Monday, but you will notice that sometimes your near vision will be crystal clear and sometimes you’ll still be reaching for our reading glasses. That healing process takes about one month until you feel that things are improved all the time. That’s because the collagen needs to smooth out evenly between the spots.

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Enhancement Program

Enhancement procedures will be performed at the discretion of Dr. Imperia based on his medical judgement. Enhancement procedures are at no charge during the first year after your original procedure and at a nominal fee thereafter. Examinations are also free during the first year after your original procedure. After one year, you or your insurance will be charged the usual and customary fees for examination by us or your primary eye doctor.

Our enhancement program is subject to change at any time. The program is intended to cover enhancements designed to achieve the goals of the original surgery. New technologies or treatments for other conditions may be developed that would not be covered. The program may not be continued by other providers or entities involved with Imperia Laser Eye Centers. The fee we charge for enhancements may change over time.

Our "Enhancement Program" is one of many unique benefits that makes our program the best vision correction value available.

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We have several convenient options for you. You may pay the entire fee before or on the day of your procedure with your Visa, MasterCard or Discover Card.

You may also pay in cash if you prefer. If you wish to pay by personal check, you may do so at the time of your surgery measurements.

We also offer time-payment options: Low monthly payments with nothing down, and several same-as-cash plans. Please ask us about current rates and arrangements during your consultation with us.

The Internal Revenue Service has determined that laser vision correction is a qualified medical expense. It also qualifies for payment through employer-sponsored "cafeteria" or "flex" medical benefit plans. Ask your employer's benefits representative for details.

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Some private insurance plans may cover laser vision correction. We will provide you a form on the day of your surgery that you can use to bill your insurance.

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