Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea, the clear front window of the eye, gradually thins and bulges into a cone shape. It usually starts in the teens or twenties and can worsen into the thirties, causing blurry, distorted vision and frequent prescription changes.

Dr. Thomas Vo, our fellowship trained cornea specialist, diagnoses and follows keratoconus with corneal mapping that shows the shape and thickness of the cornea in detail.

Why early diagnosis matters

Keratoconus can progress quietly between visits. Corneal cross linking, a treatment that strengthens the cornea, can halt progression in most patients, but it cannot reverse changes that have already happened. Catching keratoconus early and tracking it with regular corneal maps protects the best possible vision.

Signs to watch for

• Glasses prescriptions that change often, especially increasing astigmatism
• Blurry or ghosted vision that glasses do not fully correct
• Glare, halos and trouble with night driving
• A family history of keratoconus
• Frequent eye rubbing or eye allergies

Treatment options

• Stop eye rubbing and treat allergies, since rubbing can speed progression
• Corneal cross linking to slow or stop progression
• Specialty contact lenses, such as specialty contact lenses fitted by Dr. Atalie Liu, for clear vision when glasses are not enough
• Corneal surgery in advanced cases

Keratoconus is also an important reason we screen carefully before vision correction surgery.

Common questions

Can keratoconus be cured?

There is no cure, but cross linking can stop progression in most patients, and specialty lenses can restore clear vision for many.

Can I have LASIK if I have keratoconus?

Usually not, because LASIK thins the cornea further. Other options may be possible. Careful corneal mapping before any vision correction surgery checks for keratoconus.

Should my family be checked?

Keratoconus can run in families. Brothers, sisters and children of patients should mention it at their eye exams.