A new way to improve vision for those over 40.

Conductive Keratoplasty (NearVision CK) has become one of the fastest growing new refractive procedures since the introduction of LASIK at the UCLA Laser Refractive Center. This FDA-approved procedure, takes less than 10 minutes to perform, involves no incisions or tissue removal, and can turn back the clock on presbyopia. It has become a popular choice for "baby boomers" who are searching for a safe and relatively non-invasive option to reduce their dependence on reading glasses.

NearVision CK is the first refractive procedure specifically designed for treating presbyopia, the close-vision problem that affects most people by age 50. The procedure was recently approved by the FDA to treat presbyopia in people 40 years and older who have had good vision their entire lives but now need eyeglasses for reading.

During NearVision CK, the surgeon uses a fine instrument emitting controlled radiofrequency energy to gently heat particular sites within the peripheral cornea, and shrink small areas of collagen. This shrinkage pattern creates a constrictive band (like the tightening of a belt), increasing the overall curvature of the cornea to bring near-vision back into focus. Since, the radiofrequency energy reshapes the corneal periphery without removing any tissue, NearVision CK has one of the highest safety profiles among all refractive eye procedures.

NearVision is typically performed on just one eye, restoring near vision without compromising the patient's binocular distance vision. It is performed on an outpatient basis with topical anesthesia. Healing time is rapid with most patients returning to work the following day.

The UCLA Laser Refractive Center at the Jules Stein Eye Institute is at the forefront of new discoveries in refractive surgery. The Center was the first in Los Angeles to use an FDA-approved excimer laser to correct myopia (PRK and LASIK). Today, patients benefit from advanced techniques such as custom LASIK, custom LASEK/PRK, conductive keratoplasty (NearVision CK), accommodative and phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs), intracorneal ring implants (INTACS) and astigmatic keratotomy (AK).

Information for this article was provided by the UCLA Laser Refractive Center. For more information, or for a complimentary evaluation, call (310) CLAser, [phone], or visit www.uclaser.com.