Keratoconus
Keratoconus is an eye condition where the cornea gradually thins and bulges outward, leading to blurred or distorted vision. With timely diagnosis and treatment, EyeCare helps manage its progression and protect your sight
Keratoconus is a progressive condition where the cornea—the eye’s clear, dome-shaped window—thins and bulges into a cone shape. This irregular curvature scatters light, causing blurry or distorted vision, glare, and increased sensitivity to light. Early stages may be managed with glasses or soft lenses; as the disease progresses, specialty lenses or surgical procedures can stabilize the cornea and improve vision.
Keratoconus Incidence/Prevalence
Keratoconus usually begins in the late teens to early 30s and may progress over several years. It is increasingly recognized worldwide due to improved diagnostic technology and is one of the leading causes of corneal transplantation in advanced cases
Causes of Keratoconus
- Genetics: Family history increases the likelihood of developing the condition
- Eye Rubbing & Allergies: Frequent eye rubbing and allergic eye disease are strong risk factors
- Medical Conditions: Higher occurrence in people with connective-tissue disorders and systemic conditions
- Environmental Factors: UV exposure and eye irritation can accelerate progression.
Keratoconus Diagnosis and Examination
- Patient History & Symptoms: Blurred or ghosted vision, glare, halos, night-driving difficulties, frequent prescription changes
- Visual Acuity & Refraction: Detects progressive changes and irregular astigmatism
- Slit-Lamp Examination: Identifies corneal thinning, stress lines, or iron deposits
- Corneal Topography/Tomography: Gold standard to detect and track keratoconus progression
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, essential for planning treatment.
Keratoconus Treatments at EyeCare
1. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL)
Procedure: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops are applied to the cornea and activated with UV-A light, strengthening collagen bonds and stabilizing the cornea.
Benefits:
- Stops or slows disease progression
- Reduces the need for corneal transplantation
- Preserves vision for glasses or contact lenses
Note: CXL does not eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses but helps protect vision from further deterioration.
2. Specialty Contact Lenses
Rigid gas permeable, hybrid, or scleral lenses can vault over the cornea, creating a smoother optical surface for sharper vision
3. Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS/Intacs)
Tiny plastic rings are implanted in the cornea to flatten its cone shape, improving visual clarity and tolerance to contact lenses. Often combined with CXL
4. Corneal Transplant
For advanced keratoconus with scarring or severe distortion, partial-thickness (DALK) or full-thickness (PK) corneal transplant can restore clarity
Pre-Procedure Care
- Comprehensive eye exam with topography and pachymetry
- Review of medical history and allergy/eye rubbing management
- Pre-procedure counseling about expected results and healing
Post-Procedure Care (CXL/ICRS)
- Prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops
- Use of a protective contact lens for a few days in CXL
- Expect light sensitivity and blurred vision for several days; improvement occurs gradually
- Avoid eye rubbing, dusty environments, and protect eyes from UV light
- Regular follow-up appointments to confirm stability
Importance of Early Treatment
Keratoconus often progresses more rapidly in younger patients. Early detection and timely treatment—particularly with corneal cross-linking—can preserve visual potential, reduce dependence on transplants, and protect long-term quality of life
Early treatment can restore clarity, book your cataract evaluation today
Doctors and Specialists
Our Medical Team
Our team of highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists is committed to delivering personalized, comprehensive eye care
Phaco Surgeon & Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon
Dr. Mohamed Azzam
Vitreo-Retinal & Phaco Surgeon
Dr. Amogh Dileep Asgaonkar
Phaco Surgeon and Pediatric Ophthalmology
Dr. Arjun Malla Bhari
Testimonials
Read inspiring stories from patients who have experienced clearer vision and compassionate care with EyeCare, reflecting the trust and results we strive for every day
Frequently Asked Questions
A. No. Glasses and stronger lighting may help temporarily, but surgery is the only definitive treatment
A. Typically 15–30 minutes. It is performed as a day-care procedure, meaning no overnight hospital stay.
A. No. The eye is numbed with anesthetic drops or injections, and patients only feel mild pressure, not pain
A. When cataracts interfere with daily life, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. Your ophthalmologist will guide you based on your eye health
A. Many patients enjoy greatly improved vision, though some may still need glasses for reading or fine tasks, depending on the IOL type
A. Phaco uses a smaller incision with faster recovery, while SICS involves a slightly larger incision but is equally effective for vision restoration
