CK Risks/Side Effects – What to Know

CK stands for conductive keratoplasty, which is used to treat mild or moderate farsighted patients. CK is a technique that uses heat to reshape the eye’s cornea to get better vision without lasers. Even though there are no lasers used in this type of refractive surgery, there are still risks and side effects, much like all surgeries. Learn more about CK surgeries at our New Hampshire area laser eye surgery practice.

Risks

Since the procedure is done after much testing and measuring of the eyes, there are normally very few risks or side effects with this procedure. There is no cutting or removing of tissues, and therefore it is considered a very safe procedure. During the procedure, a small probe is used to administer the radio waves to the outer edges of a cornea. This curves the cornea so that light travels properly. During the procedure there are numbing drops used, which could cause allergic reactions. A dye is placed on the cornea for a pattern for the doctor to use, and guides the doctor in treatment. The probe is applied in small circles to reshape the cornea. The procedure is considered painless, and the most common sensation is pressure on the eye. A speculum is used to keep the eye open, and the feeling of something being in the eye is common. There are few risks, as there are no anesthetics as is commonly used in other surgeries. There is no cutting; therefore the risk of infection is minimal. Healing time is less than 3 days, so the risk of infection is even less.

Side Effects

Side effects from this refractive surgery include problems with vision such as seeing halos or starbursts around lights at night. Also included is hazy vision or double vision after surgery. Eyes being very sensitive to light is seen, as well as over or under correction of sight. Another side effect is anisometropia, or a difference between the eyes being able to focus properly together. Dry eye, eye irritation and an allergic reaction to the eye drops given are all common side effects with CK refractive surgery. All side effects have the potential to be temporary and there are ways to lessen and eliminate them completely. Be sure that you go to an office that can offer you the newest and best procedure for your particular needs. Do your research in advance, and then narrow your search to offices that offer the most effective services.

Comfort

While research and good references are important, what's most important is your own gut feeling. If you're just not comfortable with the clinic or more specifically with your doctor, then continue the search until you've found an office and a surgeon that you trust.

Contact the skilled ophthalmologists at New England Eye Center to learn more about CK.