Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease where the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye—thins and gradually bulges outward into a cone shape. This distortion disrupts the way light enters the eye, often leading to blurred, distorted, or fluctuating vision.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), keratoconus usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood and may worsen over 10–20 years before stabilizing. It can affect both eyes, though typically one eye is more severely impacted than the other.
Common Symptoms
Keratoconus develops slowly, and symptoms may not be obvious at first. Over time, people often notice:
- Blurred or distorted vision that does not improve with regular glasses.
- Increased nearsightedness and astigmatism, requiring frequent changes in prescription.
- Glare and light sensitivity, especially when driving at night.
- Halos, streaks, or ghost images around lights.
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses as the corneal surface becomes irregular.
The AAO emphasizes that early detection is critical. Left untreated, keratoconus may progress to the point where vision is severely impaired, sometimes requiring corneal transplantation.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of keratoconus remains unclear, several risk factors are associated with its development:
- Genetics: About 1 in 10 people with keratoconus have a family history of the condition.
- Chronic eye rubbing: This behavior, often linked to allergies or irritation, can weaken corneal tissue over time.
- Underlying conditions: Atopy, asthma, eczema, or connective tissue disorders may increase risk.
- Environmental influences: Excessive UV exposure and poorly fitted contact lenses may contribute.
Intacs® for Keratoconus
At Inland Eye LASIK, we specialize in advanced treatment options for keratoconus, including Intacs® corneal implants, a minimally invasive surgical solution designed to reshape the cornea and improve vision.
What Are Intacs?
Intacs are small, crescent-shaped, medical-grade plastic inserts placed within the cornea’s outer edge. By adding structural support, they help flatten the bulging cornea, improve its curvature, and reduce visual distortion.
Unlike corneal transplants, Intacs preserve the natural corneal tissue, and according to the AAO, they can provide effective improvement in vision quality for patients with mild to moderate keratoconus.
Benefits of Intacs
- Improved corneal shape: Helps restore a more natural, dome-like curvature.
- Enhanced vision quality: May reduce dependence on thick glasses or specialty contact lenses.
- Minimally invasive: The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with relatively quick recovery.
- Reversible and adjustable: Intacs can be removed or exchanged if needed, unlike more permanent surgical options.
- Delays or avoids transplantation: For many patients, Intacs reduce the need for corneal transplants, especially in earlier disease stages.
Who Is a Candidate?
Intacs are most effective for individuals who:
- Are diagnosed with mild to moderate keratoconus.
- Are over 21 years old.
- Have a cornea thick enough to safely accommodate the implants.
- Struggle to achieve adequate vision correction with glasses or contact lenses.
A thorough evaluation at Inland Eye LASIK, including corneal mapping and topography, will determine whether Intacs are right for you.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The Intacs procedure is generally quick and comfortable:
- Preparation: Your eye is numbed with anesthetic drops.
- Surgical insertion: A small incision is made in the cornea, and the Intacs segments are carefully placed in position.
- Recovery: The incision heals naturally without stitches, and most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
According to the AAO, many patients notice improved vision soon after surgery, though vision may continue to stabilize over several weeks.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, Intacs carry some risks, including:
- Glare or halos at night.
- Fluctuating vision during healing.
- Rare complications, such as infection or movement of the implants
Your ophthalmologist will discuss these risks in detail to ensure you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Inland Eye LASIK?
At Inland Eye LASIK, our surgeons have extensive experience managing keratoconus with advanced treatments like Intacs. We provide:
Personalized care tailored to your unique eye health needs. Advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate corneal assessment. A full range of treatment options, from specialty lenses to surgical interventions. Compassionate support at every stage of your journey.
Schedule Your Keratoconus Evaluation
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision—or if you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus—don’t wait. Early treatment with Intacs can protect your vision and improve your quality of life.
Call Inland Eye LASIK today at 909-937-9230 or click the button below to schedule your comprehensive keratoconus evaluation.
What our Patients says about us:
“Dr. Blanton and his staff are great! I found out about them through a friend. I highly recommend them. It’s a free consultation and they give you price options (which are very reasonable). They are very professional and very kind. I’m very happy with them and I’m looking forward to my surgery.“
