Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that distorts the shape of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye. In a healthy eye, the cornea has a round, smooth curve that helps focus light properly onto the retina. However, in individuals with keratoconus, the cornea gradually begins to thin and then bulge outward into a cone-like shape. This irregular curvature distorts vision, leading to blurring, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night.
Typically, keratoconus onsets during adolescence or early adulthood and may worsen over time. It is believed to be the product of a combination of genetic factors, behaviors, and habits, including frequent eye rubbing or chronic eye irritation.
If you have reason to suspect you have keratoconus, you will be interested to know some of the treatment options, which include keratoconus surgery. Keep reading to learn more about symptoms and other types of treatment.
Symptoms of Keratoconus
Recognizing the symptoms of keratoconus is key to seeking timely treatment and preventing further vision loss. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contacts
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
The Holtebeck Eye Center’s cornea specialist, Dr. Nausheen Abbas, can diagnose keratoconus through a comprehensive eye exam, which includes corneal topography to measure the curvature of the cornea. While early stages of keratoconus can be managed with glasses or soft contact lenses, more advanced cases may require specialized treatments. These treatments include corneal cross-linking and even corneal transplants in severe cases.
Keratoconus surgery refers to a range of surgical treatments designed to stabilize or correct the abnormal shape of the cornea caused by keratoconus. In cases where non-surgical options like glasses or contact lenses are no longer effective, surgery can help improve vision and prevent further progression of the condition.
Types of Keratoconus Surgery
There are several surgical options available to help manage keratoconus, each matching a different level of severity and progression of the condition. These procedures aim to either strengthen the cornea or correct its shape to improve vision and reduce the impact of the disease. Dr. Abbas will recommend the most suitable option based on the stage of keratoconus.
- Corneal Cross-Linking
Corneal cross-linking is minimally invasive and seeks to strengthen the cornea to halt the progression of keratoconus. During this procedure, riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops are applied to the cornea, followed by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. This combination helps create new cross-links between the cornea’s collagen fibers, thereby making it stronger and more stable. While this treatment doesn’t reverse keratoconus, it is effective at slowing or stopping its progression, especially in the early stages.
- Intacs (Corneal Ring Implants)
Intacs are small, crescent-shaped plastic inserts placed in the cornea to flatten its surface and improve its shape. This procedure is typically used for individuals with moderate keratoconus and can help improve vision by reducing corneal irregularities. Intacs are removable and adjustable, making them a flexible option for patients whose vision may change over time.
- Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty)
In advanced cases of keratoconus in which the cornea has become severely distorted or scarred, a corneal transplant may be necessary. During this procedure, the damaged corneal tissue is replaced with healthy donor tissue.
Who Is a Candidate for Keratoconus Surgery?
Candidates for keratoconus surgery are often those whose vision has worsened to the point of being no longer correctable with only glasses or contact lenses, or those experiencing rapid progression of keratoconus. Cornea specialist Dr. Abbas at the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield offers personalized consultations to determine the best treatment plan for your specific case, whether it involves surgery or other advanced therapies.
Trust the Holtebeck Eye Center for Expert Keratoconus Care
If you’re experiencing symptoms of keratoconus or have concerns about your eye health, the Holtebeck Eye Center is here to help. Serving Brookfield and the surrounding areas, we offer personalized care and advanced treatments to manage keratoconus and other eye conditions.
Schedule a consultation for keratoconus surgery and protect your vision for the future.