Presbyopia Correction Procedures
NearVision CK
Conductive Keratoplasty for Presbyopia
As we age, the lenses in our eyes lose some of their elasticity, thereby making it harder to focus on near objects. This condition, which causes loss of near vision in everyone sometime after the age of 40, is called presbyopia. Conductive Keratoplasty, better known as NearVision CK, can treat presbyopia and free you from reading glasses or bifocals.
CK works by using gentle radio waves to reshape the cornea, restoring your vision. There is no cutting or use of lasers and the procedure takes only three minutes per eye.
To find out if you are a good candidate for NearVision CK you will need to have a comprehensive eye exam by Dr. Cutarelli or your referring doctor.
During this exam the doctor will:
- Examine your eyes to determine if they are normal and healthy.
- Perform a loose lens test.
- Measure corneal thickness.
- Map the topography of the eyes.
- Discuss with you the best treatment options along with the benefits and risks involved and have you sign an informed consent form
Dr. Cutarelli uses state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to perform his evaluations to determine each patient's potential for good visual results.
Monovision
If you wear reading glasses or bifocals, monovision could be the answer for you. Monovision is designed to treat presbyopia and reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses or bifocals. It is a technique in which the dominant eye is used for distance vision and the other eye is used for near vision. This can be achieved through the use of contacts or by having eye surgery. The FDA specifically approved NearVision CK for monovision, however it can also by achieved through LASIK, PRK, and Epi-LASIK. Monovision is not for everyone, and it is recommended that patients considering surgery for monovision first try contacts to see if they adapt well to having monovision and find it a suitable solution for their individual lifestyle.
Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
For people who have cataracts, extreme prescriptions, or thin corneas and are therefore not eligible for laser vision correction, the implantation of an intraocular lens may be the answer.
What are intraocular lenses?
Intraocular lenses, or IOLs, are implantable lenses that are used to replace the natural crystalline lens of the eye. The first intraocular lenses were monofocal, meaning they could only correct for one type of vision, near, far, or immediate. Today, however, IOLs are multifocal and can therefore improve vision for various distances at once.
Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
Multifocal IOLs, designed to provide for both near and distance vision, are a revolutionary new option for patients. Several types of these lenses, including ReSTOR® and ReZoom™, are available. With these lenses many patients do not require any corrective eyewear for reading or distance vision after their procedure. While the surgical process is quite similar to that used with tradition IOLs, these lenses do cost more. Most patients, however, feel that it is well worth it given the results.
ReSTOR® IOLs
During an FDA trail of the ReSTOR® intraocular lenses it was found that 80% of patients no longer required any glasses or spectacles after surgery, and impressively, 94% of patients could read the newspaper without the help of corrective lenses. ReSTOR® intraocular lenses have a surface that rises in concentric rings, allowing for an even gathering and distribution of light. This design, called diffractive apodization, provides better vision at both near and far distances.
ReZoom™ IOLs
ReZoom™ intraocular lenses provide revolutionary multifocal abilities by providing many focus points, which allow for good vision across a range of distances and light conditions. Each lens contains 5 different zones, and each zone is designed to handle different distances and light conditions. The traditional monofocal lens corrects vision for only one focal point, near or far. Patients are normally corrected for distance vision and are then required to wear glasses to see near objects. The ReZoom lens allow patients to near, far, and in between without the need for additional corrective lenses.
Crystalens® IOLs
CrystalensHD® intraocular lenses differ from other IOLs because they allow for natural focusing by working with the ciliary muscles. These are the muscles that are used by the natural lens of the eye to accommodate for near, intermediate, and distance vision. The CrystalensHD® IOLs have flexible hinges within the lens, a revolutionary mechanism that uses the movement of the muscles to move the lens forward and backward. This technology mimics the eye's natural ability to focus and can restore a full range of functional vision, from reading to distance.
To learn more about ReSTOR®, ReZoom™ intraocular lenses contact Cutarelli Vision. We will be happy to answer your questions over the phone or you can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to find out which options will work best with your individual needs.
To talk to one of our vision specialists or to schedule an exam at either of our Denver or Fort Collins offices call 303-486-2020.
