Keratoconus Treatment & Corneal Surgery in San Luis Obispo County

What Is Keratoconus? 

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion affects how light enters the eye and can lead to significant vision problems. If left untreated, keratoconus can result in severe visual impairment and may require surgical intervention. 

What Causes Keratoconus? 

The exact cause of keratoconus is still under research, but most experts believe it results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. It typically begins during the teenage years and may progress into the 30s or 40s. 

In rare cases, keratoconus can develop after refractive surgeries such as LASIK, in which case it is referred to as post-LASIK ectasia. 

How Common Is Keratoconus? 

Keratoconus affects approximately 1 in 500 to 1 in 2,000 people worldwide. Early diagnosis is essential to managing progression and preserving vision. 

Common Symptoms of Keratoconus 

Symptoms may develop slowly over years or progress rapidly, and include: 

• Blurry or distorted vision 
• Increased sensitivity to light and glare 
• Redness or swelling of the eyes 
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions 
• Discomfort or poor fit with contact lenses 

In advanced stages, keratoconus can result in severe vision loss and scarring of the cornea. 

Keratoconus Treatment Options in San Luis Obispo 

Treatment depends on the severity and rate of progression of the disease. The goal is to stabilize the cornea and improve vision. 

Non-Surgical Options 

• Eyeglasses or soft contact lenses: Often effective in early stages. 
• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses: Used for moderate cases to provide a smooth refractive surface

Advanced Treatment: Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) 

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens corneal tissue and helps halt the progression of keratoconus. It works by applying riboflavin drops followed by UV light to increase collagen bonds in the cornea. 

Surgical Treatment for Advanced Keratoconus 

INTACS Corneal Inserts 

INTACS are FDA-approved, crescent-shaped plastic inserts surgically placed in the cornea to improve its shape and reduce nearsightedness and astigmatism. 

Benefits of INTACS: 

• Reshape the cornea to a more natural curvature 
• Improve vision and contact lens fit
• Delay or avoid corneal transplant surgery
• Reversible and removable if necessary

Who Is a Candidate for INTACS? 

You may be eligible for INTACS if you: 

• Are 12 years or older 
• Have progressive keratoconus or post-LASIK ectasia 
• Can no longer achieve functional vision with glasses or contacts 
• Are not yet ready for or wish to delay corneal transplant 
• Can commit to regular follow-up visits (at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6 months) 

What to Expect During INTACS Surgery 

Performed at our San Luis Obispo eye center, INTACS surgery is a quick outpatient procedure lasting 10–20 minutes: 

1. Numbing eye drops are applied. 
2. A small incision is made in the cornea.
3. A tunnel is created to insert the INTACS segments.
4. The inserts are carefully positioned, and a suture is placed to close the incision.

Recovery After INTACS Procedure

After surgery:

• Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed 
• You may resume normal activities within a few days 
• Vision continues to improve over the next few months 
• The suture is typically removed within two weeks 

Why Choose Our Eye Specialists for Keratoconus Treatment? 

Our board-certified ophthalmologists offer leading-edge diagnostics and treatment for keratoconus in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria. We specialize in early intervention, corneal cross-linking, and advanced surgical options like INTACS and corneal transplants. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus or are experiencing distorted vision, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with one of our corneal specialists. Early treatment can preserve your sight and help you avoid future complications. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)