At Peninsula Ophthalmology Group in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Francisco, CA, we treat several eye conditions, including keratoconus. Our ophthalmologists are dedicated to creating personalized treatment for our patients to slow down the progression of this disease and correct your vision. To learn more about keratoconus and its causes, we invite you to keep reading!
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is an eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape. The cornea is responsible for bending and focusing light so you can see clearly. Keratoconus causes light to bend incorrectly, which results in blurry vision.
Causes of Keratoconus
The cause of keratoconus is unknown, however, the disease develops from weakened collagen fibers in the eye. When the collagen fibers break down, the cornea loses its original shape. Some factors that lead to keratoconus include allergies, asthma, and eczema. It is important that keratoconus is detected early, as that is when it is most treatable. When you visit us for an annual eye exam, our ophthalmologists can provide an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Diagnosing Keratoconus
We utilize various methods at our offices to diagnose keratoconus. Our ophthalmologists start with an eye refraction test to check your eyes for vision problems. We may also perform a slit-lamp exam, corneal mapping, and pachymetry to determine the thickness of the cornea and which treatment may be necessary for your condition.
Treatment for Keratoconus
A mild form of keratoconus is treated with glasses or contacts. If the disease has progressed further, other treatments may be needed. If your cornea is damaged, we may perform a corneal transplant. There are various types of corneal transplants and the type that is necessary will depend on the severity of your condition. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking with Riboflavin, also known as C3R, is a safer and non-invasive procedure that can strengthen your existing cornea. Our ophthalmologists will utilize special eye drops and UV light to reshape the cornea. There is no downtime with this procedure and you can go home once the surgery is complete. In addition, you can expect your cornea to be stronger within a few weeks of treatment.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
At Peninsula Ophthalmology Group in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Francisco, CA, we have extensive experience and knowledge treating keratoconus. Our team utilizes advanced treatments and technology to correct your vision and improve your eye health. To schedule your appointment, contact us today!
