What Keratoconus Is
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye — gradually thins and bulges forward into a cone shape. This irregular shape scatters light as it enters the eye, causing blurry and distorted vision that worsens over time and becomes increasingly difficult to correct with standard glasses.
Who Gets Keratoconus?
Keratoconus typically begins in the teenage years or early 20s and progresses through the 30s, sometimes stabilizing in midlife. Risk factors include:
Symptoms to Watch For
The Game-Changer: Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Corneal cross-linking is the only FDA-approved treatment proven to halt the progression of keratoconus. It works by using UV light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops to strengthen the collagen fibers of the cornea — effectively stopping the disease in its tracks.
CXL does not restore lost vision, but it stops further deterioration. The earlier it's performed, the more of your natural vision is preserved. This is why early diagnosis matters enormously.
After Stabilization: Restoring Vision
Once keratoconus is stabilized, options for improving vision include specialty scleral contact lenses, hybrid lenses, and in severe cases, corneal transplant surgery (DSEK or DMEK).
Our fellowship-trained cornea specialist evaluates every keratoconus patient individually to create the right treatment plan — and we can often begin cross-linking and vision rehabilitation in the same practice.