These procedures use lasers or high- energy radio frequency waves to create heat. The heat shrinks parts of the cornea, reshaping it and changing the way it focuses light. These procedures are used only to treat mild hyperopia or to create monovision.
LTK
LTK (laser thermal keratoplasty) uses a holmium laser to gently heat certain areas of the cornea. This shrinks the outer portion of the cornea, making the central cornea steeper.
A holmium laser sends energy to the cornea in two or more rings. This reshapes the corneal tissue. Marks on the cornea are not visible after the procedure.
What to EXPECT
Before treatment, you may be given medication to help you relax. Eyedrops numb your eyes. A device is used to keep your eyes open. Laser treatment lasts a few seconds for each eye. Your vision should start to improve right away. It may take 3 to 6 months to become stable.
What you should CONSIDER
Pros
• Very safe procedure with few complications
• No touch procedure (no cutting or removal of corneal tissue)
• No scarring in the central cornea
• Low risk of dry eyes
• Immediate vision improvement
Cons
• Vision improvement may wear off over time.
• May take several months for vision to become stable
Risk of:
• Undercorrection or overcorrection
• Loss of best corrected vision.
CK
Ck (conductive keratoplasty) uses a tiny probe to send radiofrequency energy into the cornea. This shrinks the outer portion of the cornea, making the central cornea steeper.
The tip of a radiofrequency probe is inserted into the cornea. The probe's heat reshapes the corneal tissue. Marks on the cornea are not visible after the procedure.
What to EXPECT
Before treatment, you may be given medication to help you relax. Eyedrops numb your eyes. A device is used to keep your eyes open. The tip of a probe is then inserted into the cornea. The treatment lasts a few minutes for each eye. Your vision should start to improve right away. It may take 3 to 6 months to become stable.
What you should CONSIDER
Pros
• Very safe procedure with few complications
• No scarring in the central cornea
• Low risk of dry eyes
• Immediate vision improvement
Cons
• May take several months for vision to become stable
Risk for:
• Undercorrection or overcorrection
• Loss of best corrected vision