What is keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a corneal condition where, over time, the corneal tissue thins and weakens, causing the cornea to reshape itself into a more oblong structure. As the cornea aids in vision by refracting light to focus on the retina, this change in corneal shape can result in distorted vision. Some patients are born with this condition and others may develop it from eye trauma. Our vision professionals at West County Opthalmology offer comprehensive eye care, including diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus to individuals in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO.
How is keratoconus treated?
Our ophthalmologists will evaluate your condition and offer treatment solutions based on how advanced your keratoconus is. For some patients in the earlier stages of the disease, corrective lenses like eyeglasses or contacts can effectively correct the refractive error and allow for better vision. Keratoconus that has significantly advanced may require a more aggressive treatment approach, such as a corneal transplant where corneal tissue is taken from a human organ donor and used to replace your corneal tissue, or a corneal implant where a small medical device is inserted into your eye to correct vision. Once the progression of this condition has stabilized, lens surgery may be an option to correct higher eyeglasses prescriptions.
Correct An Abnormal Cornea
Keratoconus is a progressive illness, meaning that your distorted vision symptoms will likely worsen over time, which is why treatment is vital. Contact West County Ophthalmology to learn more about the different treatment options for keratoconus available to you.