Keratoconus Treatment

Treatment of Keratoconus

Eyeglasses or soft contact lenses may be used to correct the mild nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism that is caused in the early stages of keratoconus. As the eye disorder progresses and the cornea continues to thin and change shape, rigid gas permeable contact lenses can be prescribed to correct vision more adequately. The contact lenses must be carefully prescribed and fitted by a skilled, experienced optometrist. Frequent check-ups and lens changes may be needed to achieve and maintain good vision. Most medical insurance pays for these special lenses because the contacts become a medical necessity.  Advanced keratoconus causes blurred vision that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or soft contacts in most cases.

The eye care doctors at Master Eye Associates are very experienced and skilled in treating keratoconus patients. We utilize both the Orbscan IIz and the Humphrey corneal topographer in diagnosing and prescribing computer designed contact lenses. Refer to the printout below.

If the cornea becomes too distorted and irregular it is probably advisable to use intrastromal corneal rings (Intacs) to stabilize the protrusion and attempt to round out some of the corneal irregularities. There is only a small percent of corneal specialists that are experienced and certified in this procedure. Those surgeons work with Master Eye Associates doctors on these and other serious corneal conditions.

For more information on Intacs go to  http://www.getintacs.com/

In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be needed due to scarring, extreme thinning, or contact lens intolerance. This is a surgical procedure that replaces the distorted and thin cornea with healthy donor tissue.