Keratoconus changes the shape of the cornea and can make vision difficult to correct with ordinary eyeglasses or soft contact lenses. Custom scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, helping many patients achieve more stable, functional vision.
Strong Vision provides scleral lens evaluations and fittings for patients with keratoconus in Cypress and surrounding communities.
Keratoconus is a progressive condition in which the cornea becomes thinner and bulges outward into an irregular, cone-like shape. Because the cornea provides much of the eye’s focusing power, these changes can cause irregular astigmatism and distorted vision.
Keratoconus often begins during the teenage years or early adulthood, although its onset and rate of progression vary. It commonly affects both eyes, but one eye may be more advanced than the other.
Symptoms may include:
A comprehensive eye examination and corneal topography can help detect changes in corneal shape. Patients with known keratoconus require continued monitoring because vision correction alone does not show whether the condition is progressing.
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetics may contribute, and keratoconus can occur in more than one member of a family.
Frequent or forceful eye rubbing is also associated with keratoconus and may contribute to progression. Patients with allergies or chronically itchy eyes should seek care to address their symptoms and reduce the urge to rub.
A scleral lens vaults over the irregular cornea and rests on the sclera, the white part of the eye. The space between the lens and cornea is filled with preservative-free saline before insertion.
Together, the rigid lens and fluid reservoir create a more regular optical surface. This can reduce distortions caused by keratoconus and provide more stable vision than glasses or standard soft lenses for some patients.
Because the lens does not rest directly on the cone, many patients also find scleral lenses more comfortable than smaller corneal gas-permeable lenses. Individual results vary, and careful fitting is required.
Scleral lenses correct vision but do not stop the cornea from continuing to change. Patients should continue to receive periodic corneal imaging and examinations even when their vision is good with the lenses.
If testing shows that keratoconus is progressing, we may refer you to a corneal ophthalmologist to discuss treatment intended to stabilize the cornea.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, whether it is progressing, the presence of corneal scarring, and how well vision can be corrected.
Glasses or standard soft lenses may provide adequate vision during the early stages of keratoconus. As the corneal shape becomes more irregular, these options may no longer correct all visual distortion.
Smaller rigid gas-permeable lenses create a smooth optical surface over the cornea. They can provide useful vision but may move more or feel less comfortable than scleral lenses for some patients.
Custom soft lenses may help selected patients with mild or moderate keratoconus. Hybrid lenses combine a rigid center with a soft outer skirt, while piggyback systems place a rigid lens over a soft lens to improve comfort.
Corneal cross-linking uses riboflavin eye drops and controlled ultraviolet light to strengthen corneal tissue. Its primary purpose is to slow or stop keratoconus progression rather than restore vision already lost to corneal irregularity.
Patients may still need glasses or contact lenses after cross-linking. If progression is suspected, timely referral to a corneal ophthalmologist is important.
An ophthalmologist may consider surgically implanted corneal ring segments for selected patients. These implants can alter the corneal shape, but they do not necessarily eliminate the need for vision correction or stop progression.
Corneal transplantation may be considered when keratoconus causes advanced scarring, severe visual impairment, or an inability to tolerate contact lenses. Glasses or specialty contact lenses may still be needed after the cornea heals.
The fitting process begins with a comprehensive examination and detailed mapping of the cornea. A diagnostic lens is then evaluated to determine how it vaults over the cornea and aligns with the sclera.
The final lenses are customized for the shape, prescription, and needs of each eye. Follow-up visits allow us to assess vision, comfort, corneal clearance, and eye health and make adjustments when necessary.
Proper care reduces the risk of irritation and infection. Follow the cleaning, disinfection, filling, and replacement instructions provided by our team, and never expose your lenses to tap water, swimming pools, lakes, oceans, or hot tubs.
Remove the lenses and contact our office promptly if you develop pain, marked redness, discharge, swelling, light sensitivity, or a sudden change in vision.
If keratoconus is making it difficult to see comfortably with glasses or conventional contact lenses, scleral lenses may offer another option. Schedule an evaluation at Strong Vision to discuss your corneal health, available treatments, and whether custom scleral lenses are appropriate for you.