What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition where the front part of your eye (the cornea) becomes abnormally thin and steep compared to a normal cornea. This causes the cornea to become irregular. Because the cornea is irregular, normal glasses and contact lenses typically do not provide clear vision for people with Keratoconus.
What causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of Keratoconus is still unknown. However, research has shown that it is often associated with eye allergies, excessive eye rubbing, connective tissue disorders, and a genetic predisposition.
How is Keratoconus treated?
Because of the highly irregular cornea that develops due to Keratoconus, the optimal vision is usually obtained with a special type of contact lens called a Scleral Lens. This lens vaults over the misshapen cornea and, in essence, acts like a “new” cornea for the patient. This creates crisp and stable vision all day.
Are there other benefits to wearing Scleral Lenses?
- Cost-Effective and Long Lasting
- While the initial cost of Scleral Lenses is often higher than standard contact lenses, these lenses are made from high quality, durable material that can often last years. This allows you to benefit from the maximum value for your money.
- Safe Wear
- Because patients with Keratoconus have an irregular cornea, it is best to not have anything touching the cornea, like a standard contact lens. Because Scleral Lenses completely vault over the cornea, they provide safe wear all day.
- Wearing Comfort for Dry Eyes
- Scleral lenses are extremely pleasant to wear. Because they do not touch the front part of your eye, they are often more comfortable than standard contact lenses. They even help provide relief for patients with Dry Eyes because they are filled with a moisturizing solution. This solution continuously hydrates your eyes all day.
