Eye Care Center
Expert Care for Complex Vision Needs
If you've been diagnosed with keratoconus, you know how challenging this progressive eye condition can be. At Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center, our experienced optometrists specialize in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of keratoconus. We offer advanced solutions including specialized contact lens fittings to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision despite this complex corneal condition.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder in which the normally round, dome-shaped cornea (the clear front surface of your eye) gradually thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina, causing distorted and blurred vision that cannot be fully corrected with standard eyeglasses.
The condition typically begins during the teenage years or early twenties and may progress for 10-20 years before stabilizing. Early detection and proper management are crucial for preserving vision and quality of life.
While the exact cause of keratoconus isn't fully understood, research suggests it involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and biochemical factors:
Keratoconus tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. If you have a family history of keratoconus, regular eye exams are important for early detection.
Chronic, vigorous eye rubbing is strongly associated with keratoconus development and progression. It's crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes if you have or are at risk for keratoconus.
Keratoconus is more common in people with certain conditions, including allergies, asthma, eczema, Down syndrome, and connective tissue disorders.
At Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center, we use advanced diagnostic technology to accurately diagnose and monitor keratoconus:
This sophisticated imaging technique creates a detailed map of your cornea's surface, allowing us to detect even subtle changes in corneal shape and track disease progression over time.
We measure corneal thickness (pachymetry) to assess thinning, a hallmark of keratoconus.
We evaluate your vision quality and determine the best possible correction with various lens options.
We carefully examine your cornea for signs of scarring, stress lines, or other keratoconus-related changes.
Treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity and progression of the condition. We offer comprehensive management options:
In early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may provide adequate vision correction. However, as the condition progresses, more specialized solutions are typically needed.
RGP lenses are often the first line of specialized treatment for keratoconus. These lenses create a smooth, regular refracting surface over the irregular cornea, providing significantly improved vision.
Scleral lenses are large-diameter RGP lenses that vault over the entire cornea and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera). They're particularly effective for moderate to advanced keratoconus and provide excellent comfort and vision quality.
These lenses combine an RGP center for clear vision with a soft peripheral skirt for enhanced comfort, offering an excellent option for many keratoconus patients.
For patients who cannot tolerate RGP lenses, we may fit a soft lens as a cushion beneath an RGP lens for improved comfort.
For progressive keratoconus, we can refer you for corneal cross-linking, a procedure that strengthens corneal tissue and can slow or halt disease progression.
In advanced cases where contact lenses are no longer effective, we work with corneal specialists to coordinate surgical options such as corneal transplantation.
Fitting contact lenses for keratoconus requires specialized expertise and advanced technology. Our process includes:
We take precise measurements of your corneal shape, size, and irregularities using advanced imaging technology.
You'll try diagnostic lenses in the office so we can evaluate fit, movement, and vision quality. This may require multiple visits to find the optimal lens design.
Based on your unique corneal topography, we order custom-designed lenses tailored specifically to your eyes.
We provide thorough training on how to safely insert, remove, and care for your specialized lenses.
Regular follow-up appointments ensure optimal lens fit, comfort, and vision as your condition evolves.
With proper management, most people with keratoconus maintain good functional vision. Important considerations include:
A keratoconus diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but with specialized care and the right treatment approach, most patients achieve good vision and maintain an excellent quality of life. Our team has helped numerous keratoconus patients find solutions that work for their unique situations.
If you have keratoconus or suspect you might, don't wait to seek specialized care. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your visual outcome and quality of life.
Contact Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center today at 480-706-3937 or visit us at 15215 S 48th St STE 180, Phoenix, AZ 85044. Let our experienced team help you navigate keratoconus with confidence and achieve your best possible vision.
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