Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive corneal disorder that causes the normally dome-shaped front surface of the eye to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to blurred, distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light, and frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions—often starting in adolescence or early adulthood and affecting both eyes unevenly. While the exact causes remain under study, factors like genetics, chronic eye rubbing, and environmental influences such as UV exposure may contribute to its development, making early detection crucial to preserve vision and prevent complications. Treatment begins conservatively with specialized contact lenses, including rigid gas-permeable or scleral options for better visual correction, but advanced interventions like corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL)—now enhanced with accelerated and customized protocols in 2025—can effectively halt progression by strengthening the cornea with UV light and riboflavin. For more severe cases, intracorneal ring segments (Intacs) or, rarely, corneal transplants offer restorative solutions, empowering patients to regain clarity and quality of life. At our practice, our experienced team specializes in comprehensive keratoconus evaluations and personalized management plans—contact us today to explore your options and safeguard your sight for the long term.