What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea — the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of your eye — thins and begins to bulge outward into a cone shape. This irregular shape distorts vision, often causing:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
- Difficulty seeing at night
Keratoconus usually begins in the teenage years or early adulthood and can progress over time, making early detection and management essential.
Causes & Risk Factors
While the exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, certain factors can increase your risk:
- Genetics: Family history of keratoconus
- Eye rubbing: Chronic, vigorous rubbing of the eyes
- Allergies or asthma: Often linked to increased eye irritation
- Connective tissue disorders: Such as Ehlers-Danlos or Marfan syndrome
How Keratoconus Affects Your Vision
As the cornea becomes more cone-shaped, it can no longer focus light properly onto the retina, leading to distorted and blurred vision. In the early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may help. However, as keratoconus advances, these solutions often become ineffective.
Specialty Scleral Contact Lenses for Keratoconus
At Eyes on Lakeland, we specialize in treating keratoconus with custom scleral contact lenses.
Why Scleral Lenses Work
Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the irregular corneal surface and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera). This design:
- Creates a smooth, regular surface for light to pass through
- Improves visual clarity, even in advanced keratoconus
- Provides a tear-filled cushion for enhanced comfort
- Reduces irritation and dryness
Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus
- Superior vision correction compared to glasses or standard lenses
- All-day comfort, even for sensitive eyes
- Protection for the cornea from further mechanical irritation
Our Keratoconus Care Process
When you visit our office, we take a personalized approach:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination – Including corneal topography to map the shape of your cornea
- Custom Lens Fitting – Using advanced technology to design lenses tailored to your eyes
- Training & Support – We teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your scleral lenses
- Ongoing Care – Regular follow-ups to ensure comfort, vision stability, and lens health
Why Choose Eye on Lakeland for Keratoconus Treatment?
- Expertise in Specialty Contact Lenses – We focus on complex corneal conditions
- State-of-the-Art Technology – Precision measurements for a perfect lens fit
- Patient-Centered Care – We take the time to address your questions and needs
Schedule Your Keratoconus Consultation
If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus or suspect you may have it, early intervention can help preserve your vision. Contact Eyes on Lakeland today to schedule your keratoconus evaluation and learn how specialty scleral lenses can improve your vision and comfort.
📞 (863) 250-5553
📍 Visit us 1400 Florida Ave S. Lakeland Fl 33803n Lakeland, Florida
Keratoconus Treatment FAQ
Q: Can keratoconus be cured?
A: Keratoconus cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively with treatments like specialty scleral lenses, which restore clear vision and comfort.
Q: Are scleral lenses comfortable?
A: Yes. Because scleral lenses rest on the sclera and not the cornea, they often feel more comfortable than traditional contact lenses, especially for sensitive eyes.
Q: How do scleral lenses help keratoconus?
A: Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, improving visual clarity and reducing distortion caused by keratoconus.
Q: How long do scleral contact lenses last?
A: With proper care, scleral lenses typically last 1–3 years, but regular check-ups are essential to ensure they fit properly and maintain eye health.
Q: Is keratoconus hereditary?
A: Genetics can play a role. If you have a family history of keratoconus, it’s wise to schedule regular eye exams for early detection.
