Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye, can thin and bulge, outward into a cone-like shape. This distortion causes blurred or distorted vision, even with glasses and rule out the use of standard contact lenses. At Vision Care Clinic, we specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus, offering a range of advanced options, including the latest advancement, CAIRS procedure, to help patients manage their condition and restore their quality of life.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus typically begins in the teenage years or early twenties and as it is a progressive dystrophy, it continues to worsens over time. The cornea is weaker than usual, as there are not enough bonds between the layers of the cornea so it loses its ability to maintain its normal shape: this can lead to visual distortions like double vision, glare, and sensitivity to light. In the early stages, keratoconus may be manageable with corrective lenses such as glasses or hard contact lenses. However, as the condition progresses, more advanced treatment options may be necessary.

At Vision Care Clinic, we are committed to offering the most effective treatments for keratoconus to help slow or halt the progression of the disease, improve vision, and preserve eye health.

Treatment for Keratoconus

The treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of the condition and the degree to which the cornea has deteriorated. Here are the treatment options available at Vision Care Clinic:

Specialist Contact Lenses

At Vision Care Clinic we offer specialised contact lenses, such as mini scleral lenses, which can vault over the top of irregular shaped contact lenses or impression based customised contact lens called EyePro, which are bespoke to each cornea. These options can provide clearer vision and better comfort for those with some patients with irregular corneal shapes.

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)

One of the most common treatments for keratoconus is corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL), a procedure designed to strengthen the cornea and slow the progression of the disease. This procedure involves the application of riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops to the cornea, followed by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light activates the riboflavin, causing the collagen fibres in the cornea to bond together and strengthen. This can help prevent further thinning and bulging of the cornea, allowing for improved stability and reduced risk of vision loss.

Advanced, Customised Laser

Advanced Customised Laser procedure utilises highly precise mapping technology to create a personalised treatment plan for each eye. It takes into account the unique shape and the effects of keratoconus on the cornea.  Often performed with corneal cross linking, this procedure aims to regularise the corneal surface so individuals  can benefit from improved quality of corrected vision and potentially lead to further refractive procedures.

Intra-Corneal Rings:

For patients with more advanced keratoconus who are not candidates for glasses or contact lenses, artificial rings added to the cornea may be an option. These are small, curved man-made inserts that are surgically placed in the cornea to help reshape it and reduce the cone-like protrusion. This can improve the overall shape of the cornea and provide better visual clarity; however, we are more commonly offering CAIRS, as a more natural alternative (see below).

CAIRS Procedure

At Vision Care Clinic, we are proud to offer the CAIRS procedure, an advanced and innovative treatment for keratoconus. The Keratoconus Advanced Intra-Corneal Ring Segments (CAIRS) are made of natural corneal collagen material which are shaped and implanted into tailored, laser created, corneal channels. These natural inserts are accepted into the eye, without disturbance, to flatten and regularise the cornea for improved vision.  This procedure may be performed with corneal collagen cross linking (CXL) or advanced customised laser treatment.

The benefits of the procedure include:

Improved Quality of Vision: By reshaping and regularising the cornea, the CAIRS procedure can help improve the quality of vision by minimising irregularities which cause optical disturbances.

Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves the creation of precise corneal tunnels with a delicate laser, then the CAIRS inserts are inserted through small openings.  This is an outpatient procedure with quick recovery for most patients.

Long-Lasting Results: CAIRS provides a long-term solution for keratoconus, safely increasing volume and regularising the corneal shape.

Why Choose Vision Care Clinic?

At Vision Care Clinic, our experienced team of specialists are dedicated to thoroughly investigating keratoconous and providing the most effective and up-to-date treatments. With the addition of the CAIRS procedure, we are able to offer a personalised and innovative treatment plan. Our clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic technology, allowing us to accurately assess the condition of your cornea and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

We understand that dealing with keratoconus can be challenging, but with the right treatment, it’s possible to improve your vision and slow the progression of the condition. Whether you are a candidate for corneal cross-linking, Intacs, or the CAIRS procedure, Vision Care Clinic is here to help guide you through your treatment journey.