KERATOCONUS

The Vision Express and Vision Express Medical Teams, now offer an ongoing treatment programme for Keratoconus.

Keratoconus is normally diagnosed in early teens, and develops at different rates over ten to twenty years. 

Keratoconus is a disease of the cornea , which causes distortions in vision (astigmatism), difficulty with light and halo effect, and a gradual weakening of corneal layers.

The earlier the diagnosis of Keratoconus is made, the more easily the deterioration of the cornea, and vision loss can be treated.

Initial potential diagnosis is during a routine eye examination.

A full, comprehensive diagnosis will be with Dr Victor Flores, the ophthalmic surgeon experienced in Keratoconus.

A full examination on the Corneal Topographer, at Vision Express Medical, will indicate damage to the cornea, and determine the level of treatment required.

Treatment 

In the early stage, glasses and contact lenses can be used to correct any astigmatism induced vision problems.

Keratoconus patients may have an increased habit of eye rubbing, which weakens the cornea.

As the disease progresses glasses prescriptions can change rapidly,  and despite the change in lens prescription, the quality of vision is difficult to retain.

As the cornea weakens and becomes more distorted, Keratoconus contact lenses or Scleral contact lenses can be fitted, by the optometric contact lens Team at Vision Express.

Six monthly checks up appointments will often be needed to monitor the progression of the disease. 

Keratoconus normally affects both eyes, but not always with the same severity. Keratoconus develops at different speeds in different patients.

The Ophthalmologist, at Vision Express Medical, will advise at which stage of the progression of Keratoconus, Collagen Cross Linking Surgery is required.

Collagen Cross Linking  Surgery  involves carefully applied Riboflavin drops to the cornea, and the use of UV light. 

This  treatment strengthens and thickens the cornea, so that specialized contacts lenses,  or Intrastromal corneal rings (inserted during a follow on surgery) can flatten the cornea and reduce distortion of vision.

If Keratoconus is not treated and checked regularly it can lead to a ruptured cornea and extensive corneal transplant surgery.