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Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)




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What is CK?
CK (Conductive Keratoplasty) is a non-laser procedure to correct hyperopia. CK is a procedure that involves using radiofrequency (RF) energy to reshape the cornea without any cutting or removal of tissue.



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Am I a suitable candidate?
In general, suitable candidates:
  • Have hyperopia or presbyopia
  • Require reading glasses to compensate for difficulties in near vision
  • Be in good general health
  • Have no health issues affecting your eyes
  • Have no active eye conditions which may affect healing
  • Have a stable glasses or contact lens prescription for the last year
To find out if CK is suitable for you, you should have a comprehensive eye examination by our ophthalmologist. During the examination, we will give you more specific information and answer any questions you may have. The examination will take about 3 hours because it is a very thorough examination.


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How to prepare for CK?
  1. Attend one of the public seminars organized by Guy Hugh Chan Refractive Surgery Centre to obtain basic information about refractive surgeries. Admissions are free. Reservation can be made by contacting 2835 8899 or online at www.hksh.com.
  2. Make an appointment with our Centre for a complete eye examination and evaluation. Book the date of operation if you are suitable for CK.
  3. Wear eyeglasses and stop wearing contact lenses before CK:
    • Soft lenses for 3 to 7 days
    • Hard or gas permeable lenses for 2 to 4 weeks (Another option: Change to soft lenses for 3 weeks, then stop wearing soft lenses for 1 week)

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How is CK performed?
  1. Anaesthesize the eyes with eye drops.
  2. Place a speculum to hold the lids apart.
  3. Apply controlled radiofrequency energy along the periphery of the cornea in a circular pattern to shrink the local point of corneal tissue in a well-controlled fashion.
  4. Place a bandage contact lens on the eye for protection and healing.
  5. Apply antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.

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Commonly Encountered Symptoms after CK during Recovery Phase
  1. During the first 1 to 2 days after surgery, you may experience tearing and some discomfort, including a foreign-object sensation in the eyes.
  2. Patients may experience visual fluctuations for the first couple of weeks following the surgery.

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How to take care of my eyes after CK?

On Surgery Day
  1. Normally you can return to work soon after the procedure.
  2. If there is discomfort in your eyes, you may take the pain relieving medications provided. Take medications according to instructions.
  3. DO NOT RUB THE EYES.
  4. Follow doctor's instructions when using eye drops.

Post-op Eye Care
  1. Artificial tears can be used anytime when your eyes feel dry.
  2. Avoid using eye make-up, especially mascara, for 1 month to reduce the chance of infection.
  3. Avoid exposing the eyes to soap or unclean water for 1 week.
  4. Avoid swimming for 1 month.

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Follow Up Examination
  1. Return for eye examination on the next day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after surgery or at times your doctor deems necessary.

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What are the possible complications of CK?
As CK requires no incision and tissue removal, the procedure has very minimal risk. Post-operative complications include induced astigmatism, over or under correction, visual acuity fluctuation, light sensitivity and glare. Regression may occur but rare.


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