What Are The Stages of Keratoconus? A Look Into Treatment Options

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that weakens and thins the cornea, causing it to bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion leads to blurry vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty with night driving. If you or a loved one in Decatur has been diagnosed with keratoconus, understanding its stages and available treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your eye care.
 

Understanding the Stages of Keratoconus

Keratoconus doesn’t happen overnight. It typically develops in early adolescence or young adulthood and progresses over time. The speed and severity of progression vary from person to person, but it generally follows these stages.
 

Early Stage

In the initial phase, symptoms are mild and may be mistaken for common refractive errors like astigmatism. You may experience slight blurring, increased light sensitivity, or frequent changes in your glasses prescription. Standard glasses or soft contact lenses might still provide sufficient vision correction at this stage.
 

Moderate Stage

As the cornea continues to thin and bulge, vision correction becomes more challenging. Glasses may no longer provide clear vision, and soft contact lenses may no longer sit properly on the cornea. This is when specialized contact lenses, like rigid gas permeable (RGP) or hybrid lenses, are often introduced.
 

Advanced Stage

In the later stages, the cornea becomes highly irregular, making vision correction with glasses nearly impossible. Severe glare, ghosting, and double vision are common complaints. This is where scleral lenses shine. These larger, custom-designed lenses vault over the irregular cornea and provide a smooth optical surface, significantly improving vision and comfort.
 

Severe Stage

In rare cases, if keratoconus progresses to a point where even specialty lenses can’t provide functional vision, surgical options such as corneal cross-linking or a corneal transplant may be considered. However, with early diagnosis and proper management, many people can avoid surgery and successfully manage their vision with specialty lenses.
 

Finding the Right Fit

At Specs Appeal, we take a customized approach to keratoconus management, ensuring you receive the best possible vision correction.
 

  • Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses – These hard lenses are designed to vault over the irregular surface or scar tissue of the cornea, improving visual acuity. While they can be highly effective for some individuals, their small size and direct contact with the cornea may result in reduced comfort. Additionally, RGP lenses carry a higher risk of progressive corneal scarring due to potential contact with existing scar tissue. Proper fitting and regular monitoring are essential to minimize these risks and ensure optimal eye health.
     

  • Hybrid Lenses – Designed to offer the advantages of both rigid and soft contact lenses, hybrid lenses feature a rigid gas permeable (RGP) center for sharp, clear vision and a soft outer skirt to enhance comfort and stability. They are an excellent option for individuals who struggle with traditional RGP lenses but require improved visual acuity beyond what soft lenses can provide. However, potential drawbacks include the risk of the soft skirt tearing over time, reduced suitability for individuals with dry eyes, and possible discomfort if the skirt is not properly fitted.
     

  • Scleral Lenses – Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger in diameter and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, rather than directly on the cornea. This unique design allows the lens to vault over the irregular corneal surface, providing exceptional visual clarity and superior comfort. With advancements in technology, fully customized scleral lenses can now be tailored to each patient’s unique eye shape, ensuring an optimal fit for unmatched comfort. Additionally, scleral lenses create a fluid-filled reservoir that helps maintain corneal hydration, making them an excellent option for individuals with dry eyes.
     

Dr. Ta is dedicated to staying at the forefront of scleral lens advancements, regularly attending specialized training and conferences to refine his fitting techniques. By utilizing the latest technology, he ensures that each patient receives a lens designed for optimal fit, comfort, and vision correction.
 

Personalized Keratoconus Care in Decatur, GA

Living with keratoconus can be frustrating, but with the right approach, clear and comfortable vision is possible. At Specs Appeal, we take the time to understand your unique needs and find the best lens solution for you. Whether you’re new to keratoconus or looking for a better alternative to your current lenses, we’re here to help.
 

If you’re experiencing changes in your vision or suspect keratoconus, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ta at Specs Appeal and let us help you see clearly with a solution designed just for you. Contact our office in Decatur, Georgia, by calling (678) 846-2000 to book an appointment today.