Keratoconus and How We Treat It
Keratoconus example
Keratoconus, a degenerative disease of the eye, is a non-inflammatory thinning and bulging of the cornea causing substantial vision distortion. Typically both eyes are affected but to varying degrees. It is usually diagnosed during the teenage years with progression continuing into the twenties and thirties. The exact cause of this disease is unknown but genetics, environmental and cellular factors may be some explanations.
Keratoconus Simulation
*Actual visual symptoms may differ.
Symptoms Can Include:
- Impaired vision at all distances
- Multiple “ghost” images / double vision
- Poor night vision
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Little to no pain
How We Treat Keratoconus
I have extensive experience in treating this disease with contact lens therapy. As each individual patient is unique and requires different treatment, I take the time to thoroughly access the patient and prescribe a specialty lens protocal. Specialty contact lenses can create the effect of a smoother cornea allowing images to come to a single focus. Hybrid lens technology combines the comfort of a soft lens with the visual improvements of RGP (rigid gas-permeable) lenses. Scleral lenses encompass a larger surface area on the eye and provide more stability. In a small range of patients with keratoconus where specialty lens treatment is not effective, I may recommend corneal transplant surgery.
For more information visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology here or the visit the American Optometric Association here.
Dr. Carlin is a highly experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist and Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology with more than five decades of experience in vision care and surgical innovation. A graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine, he completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan before serving in the United States Navy in Key West, Florida. In 1977, he founded CarlinVision and has since built a longstanding reputation for excellence in LASIK, cataract surgery, refractive procedures, and cosmetic eyelid surgery. Throughout his career, Dr. Carlin has completed more than 11,000 procedures and remains at the forefront of advanced laser and refractive technologies. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and an active member of multiple leading professional organizations, reflecting his enduring commitment to clinical excellence and patient care.