Cornea Conditons & Treatments

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus, often referred to as “KC,” is a sight-threatening eye disease in which the typically round, dome-shaped cornea (the clear part of your eye) progressively thins and weakens, causing a cone-like bulge to form and blurry or distorted vision. Keratoconus can result in significant visual loss and may lead to a corneal transplant if left untreated.

Corneal Cross – Linking

Collagen Cross-linking has proven to be a first-line treatment for individuals with eye conditions such as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration, and corneal weakness (ectasia) after LASIK. Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) has been shown in numerous clinical trials to strengthen the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) through the application of riboflavin, a form of vitamin B2, followed by treatment with ultraviolet - A light. This procedure is done in our office, without the need for an operating room or general anesthesia. Instead, the eye is numbed using topical drops for a more comfortable experience. Corneal cross-linking can be used in combination with other techniques to treat varying degrees of the condition.

iLink is the only FDA-approved corneal cross-linking procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure uses specially formulated prescription eye drops combined with ultraviolet (UV) light from the KXL® System to slow or halt the progression of the disease.

If you have been diagnosed with corneal ectasia or keratoconus call the office to schedule your consultation.

Fuchs Dystrophy

Fuchs' dystrophy is a disease of the cornea. It is when cells in the corneal layer called the endothelium gradually die off. These cells normally pump fluid from the cornea to keep it clear. When they die, fluid builds up and the cornea gets swollen and puffy. Vision becomes cloudy or hazy. (AOA)

Fuchs is a progressive condition that can worsen over time. In early stages you may notice your vision is blurry or hazy in the morning, but improves throughout the day. In later stages the vision may remain hazy and not improve.

There are treatment options available to treat Fuchs and other severe corneal conditions. Dr. Stevens provides a variety of therapeutic and surgical options. Surgical options may range from a full corneal transplant to a less invasive option such as a DMEK or DSEK, where healthy corneal cells are transplanted into your cornea. Dr. Stevens will determine a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.