Conductive Keratoplasty vs. Clear Lens Exchange
Chicago, Illinois
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK) is a relatively new, non-invasive type of refractive surgery, ideal for patients who have presbyopia, a gradual loss of your near vision. CK involves the use of mild heat from radio waves to alter the shape of your cornea. By shrinking your corneal tissue, Dr. Mark Golden can improve your vision if you suffer from farsightedness and/or presbyopia.
Advantages of CK
One major advantage of CK is that it is less likely to blur your distance vision when compared to other Laser Vision Correction procedures. There is no knife involved and no cutting of your ocular tissue; therefore, the risks associated with this procedure are inherently lower than similar treatments. In fact, the only real risk is a slight distortion in vision, which is incredibly rare and can be corrected with surgery.
CK is also ideal if you have already undergone LASIK or cataract surgery and want to correct your near vision. Without the need for reading glasses, you will be able to read a book and enjoy other close up activities that have become difficult with age.
About Clear Lens Exchange (CLE)
Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) is a procedure that can correct both near and distance vision for those wishing to reduce their need for glasses and contacts.
This internal eye procedure is similar to cataract surgery, as it involves removing your eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) allow your eye to focus from near to distant points without the need for prescription eyewear. With CLE, an ultrasound probe is used to break down your eye’s natural lens and remove it with suction. The IOL is then permanently placed over your cornea.
In recent years, CLE has also been used to correct other vision problems, including astigmatism (blurry vision) and nearsightedness. Because of the risk of complications, this procedure is often advised of you are in need of severe vision correction.
Riskier Than Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
Because it corrects severe refractive issues, CLE is riskier than CK. Potential side effects include:
- Decreased depth perception
- Night vision problems
- Halos or glare
Additionally, you may still be required to wear glasses or contacts, or undergo the occasional “laser touch-up” because the lenses may not fully restore your range of vision.
Advantages of CLE
We are certain the benefits of CLE far outweigh the risks. You can enjoy excellent, quality vision and the ability to see the world clearly without glasses or contacts. This procedure will also prevent you from developing cataracts later in life because your natural lens is permanently replaced with an IOL.
CLE and CK can help you see clearly and enjoy the activities you once did. If you live in the Chicago or Arlington Heights area and want to enhance your vision, please contact the vision correction team at Doctors for Visual Freedom. We can answer your questions and schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Mark Golden, Chicago area eye surgeon.
Two Locations:
Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center
875 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1550
Chicago, IL 60611 | Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center
2010 S Arlington Heights Rd, Suite 121
Arlington Heights, IL 60005 |
