Treating
Keratoconus
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Latest keratoconus treatment with the team involved in the development of Cross-Linking (CXL) treatment — and first UK clinic to provide it.
Treating
I flew to London from Canada to do the cross-linking for my keratoconus at Accuvision… Everything about my experience was (and still is) perfect.
They personalised every aspect of my care so that I achieved the best vision possible with my condition. I have been able to achieve 20/20 vision…
I had Corneal Collagen Cross-linking carried out to both eyes and have now achieved the visual standard required for commercial pilots.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition that weakens and thins the cornea (the transparent window at the front of the eye). This results in a cornea that has a ‘cone-shaped’ forward bulge, leading to myopia (short-sightedness), astigmatism (blurry vision), or severe vision loss if left untreated.
Why specialised care is essential:
Preserving sight is often achievable — but it requires early diagnosis and specialised, proactive treatment. Unfortunately, this is often beyond the scope of routine high-street eye tests.
That’s why many AccuVision patients travel great distances, even internationally, to benefit from our diagnostic expertise and advanced Keratoconus care. Once stabilised, we then co-manage their care with their local providers.
What are the symptoms of Keratoconus?
Keratoconus can come in various forms and severity levels, but some common symptoms include:
⦿ Blurred or distorted vision
⦿ Glasses prescription changes often
⦿ Light sensitivity (photophobia)
⦿ Halos and glare
⦿ Double vision (ghosting)
⦿ Frequent eye-rubbing
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can preserve your vision in almost every case.
If you (or your child) experience any of the above symptoms, consult a specialist immediately.
What causes Keratoconus?
Parents with Keratoconus should ensure their children’s eyes are examined from the age of 10 at a specialised clinic equipped to detect the condition early.
Intense, repeated eye-rubbing can cause keratoconus — especially when using the back of the knuckle. This is the #1 most dangerous, avoidable risk factor for Keratoconus.
Keratoconus usually starts in teenage years — but can show up in childhood or later on in adulthood.
People with hay fever or atopic conditions, like eczema, are more prone to eye-rubbing.
Makes your eyes feel dryer and leads to more eye-rubbing. Smoking can also cause meibomian gland dysfunction, drying out your eyes and causing more friction.
Dry or windy environments, or poorly fitting contact lenses, can make your eyes dryer and result in more eye-rubbing.
Collagen disorders include Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Marfan Syndrome and Ostogenesis Imperfecta.
According to a study in the European Journal of Human Genetics, some of the genes involved in these disorders play a role in Keratoconus.
A study published in Frontiers of Medicine showed that lower testosterone levels in both male and female Keratoconus patients and higher estradiol levels in male Keratoconus patients may contribute to corneal thinning and steepening — which are characteristic of KC.
Certain disorders like diabetes, Down syndrome, and sleep apnea make keratoconus more likely.
If you suspect Keratoconus or have a family history, consult with a specialist as soon as possible. Early treatment can control its progression and save your vision.
How is Keratoconus managed?
Well-fitted lenses can help with maximising vision, but can’t treat keratoconus as they don’t stop the progression of the condition.
Intacs are a surgical procedure effective for mild to moderate keratoconus. When they are inserted into the eye, they reshape the cornea by flattening it closer to its original shape.
Monitoring your vision closely and being attentive to any vision changes or new symptoms is crucial so that we can promptly address any new issues.
Essential Keratoconus self-care tips
Living with keratoconus? These self-care tips will help you maintain your corneal health and keep your vision sharp. Let’s dive in!
Follow your doctor's instructions
Including any medications, eye drops, special contact lenses, and follow-up appointments. Consistency is key here.
Protect your eyes from UV rays
Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection. This is especially important after procedures like corneal cross-linking (CXL).
Avoid eye-rubbing
We know it can be tempting, but try to resist rubbing your eyes. This can exacerbate corneal changes. If you're experiencing dry eyes, use the prescribed artificial tears.
Maintain good eye hygiene
Use the recommended eyelid cleansers and follow proper hygiene practices, especially if you wear contact lenses. This helps prevent infections.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration supports overall eye health. It can help alleviate some of the dry eye symptoms common in keratoconus patients.
Manage allergies
If you have allergies, it's important to keep them under control. We can discuss strategies that won't interfere with your keratoconus management.
Have a healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids can support your overall eye health. Consider incorporating foods like leafy greens, fish, and citrus fruits.
Reach out promptly
If you experience any sudden changes in vision, increased pain, or signs of infection, please seek immediate care. Early intervention can be crucial.
Remember, managing keratoconus is a collaborative effort. By following these self-care practices, you can preserve your vision and eye health.
If you have any questions about these tips or your treatment, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Specialised Keratoconus treatments at AccuVision
Topography-Guided Custom Ablation Treatment (T-CAT)
- Achieve your best possible vision quality with an advanced type of Laser Eye Surgery mapped to your specific corneal topography.
- See sharper safely, with precision-tailored treatment by the UK's leading vision correction experts.
- Achieve greater freedom from glasses or contacts.
Cross-Linking Treatment (CXL)
- Halts disease progression and reduces risk of further corneal deformation with UV light and Riboflavin drops.
- Maximises the rigidity and stability of your cornea with precise CXL treatment by leading Keratoconus specialists.
- A strong and stable cornea, more resistant to keratoconic changes.
T-CAT and CXL combined treatment
- Unlock your clearest vision possible, with long-term vision stability and exceptional vision quality.
- Have the best chance at stopping, or in advanced cases, slowing the progression of Keratoconus.
- The latest and most effective Keratoconus treatment available, with a combination of two cutting-edge technologies.
How T-CAT and CXL combined treatment works
1) Mapping Irregularities
We use advanced 
diagnostics to map even extremely distorted corneas with perfect precision.
2) T-CAT Laser Treatment
We use this diagnostic data to plan a customised Laser treatment to normalise corneal irregularities.
3) Vision Improvement
Many Keratoconus patients experience a substantial improvement in their vision after the T-CAT Laser treatment.
4) CXL Treatment
Finally, we apply CXL treatment to strengthen the cornea for lasting vision quality.
Charlene's Treatment at AccuVision
Diagnosed at 19, Charlene spent 9 years with ineffective rigid gas permeable lenses, frequent prescription changes and eye irritation until she found AccuVision:
“I describe this as previously looking through black and white television to now seeing things in high definition. This has been life changing for me, my family, and friends.”
She had lost hope due to unsuccessful treatments in the past:
“I had issues in the past with previous optometrists struggling to find RGPS to fit…. However, to my surprise… I managed to see out of my right eye for the first time in years. I was very emotional and it was almost a miracle that they had accomplished this.”
Treatment results at AccuVision
Our advanced screening, prompt diagnosis and holistic Keratoconus treatment provide life-changing outcomes for our patients, including:
All patients exhibited a reduction in irregular astigmatism
Most patients showed improved glasses prescription and Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA).
Average improvement in topographical asymmetry was 7.8D. This meant reduced corneal distortion and improved profile.
Majority of patients stopped keratoconus progression.
No patients lost Best Corrected Visual Acuity
Patient | Difference along steepest meridian: | Gain/Loss BCVA (Snellen Lines) | ||
Pre-Op | Post-Op | Improvement | ||
SMR | 8D | 2.5D | 5.5D | 1 |
SML | 13D | 3D | 10D | = |
MGR | 15D | 2D | 13D | 3 |
GCR | 3D | 1.5D | 1.5D | +1/2 |
GCL | 8.5D | 0.5D | 8D | 1 |
SBR | 5D | 3D | 2D | = |
SBL | 8D | 3.5D | 4.5D | 1 |
PBR | 7D | 5D | 2D | = |
PBL | 13D | 7D | 6D | 2 |
IOR | 18D | 4D | 14D | 1 |
IOL | 21D | 11D | 10D | +1/2 |
PJR | 18D | 4D | 14D | 4 |
PJL | 10D | 2D | 8D | 1 |
JOR | 17D | 6D | 11D | = |
JOL | 14.5D | 2.5D | 12D | = |
MWR | 11D | 6D | 5D | 1 |
LSR | 6D | 2D | 4D | = |
PPR | 9D | 0D | 9D | 1 |
PPL | 7D | 3D | 4D | = |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Keratoconus cannot be completely cured, but its progression can be halted or slowed down through specialised treatments. These treatments aim to improve vision and stabilize the cornea.
- Treatment options: Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL), T-CAT Laser Correction, and, in advanced cases, corneal transplantation.
- Management options: Contact lenses and Intacs to achieve Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA).
The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and individual factors. Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial to managing keratoconus effectively.
Yes, many individuals with keratoconus can lead normal lives with proper management and treatment.
While it may require ongoing eye care and the use of corrective lenses or other interventions, most people with keratoconus can maintain their daily activities, including work, education, and recreational pursuits.
Regular check-ups with an eye care specialist are essential to monitor the condition and make necessary adjustments to treatment.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition, and its seriousness can vary from person to person.
In its early stages, it may cause mild visual disturbances that can be managed with glasses or soft contact lenses.
However, in advanced cases, when the cornea becomes severely distorted, it can lead to significant vision impairment.
While keratoconus is not life-threatening, its impact on quality of life underscores the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Two common signs of keratoconus include:
- Blurred or Distorted Vision: People with keratoconus often experience blurred or distorted vision, which can make it challenging to read, drive, or perform daily tasks. This distortion may not be adequately corrected with regular eyeglasses.
- Increased Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Many individuals with keratoconus become more sensitive to light, experiencing discomfort when exposed to bright or harsh lighting conditions. This sensitivity can be a noticeable symptom of the condition.
Other signs may include frequent changes in prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, ghosting or multiple images, and eye irritation.
Keratoconus is typically managed rather than “fixed” in the traditional sense. The best chance
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): CXL is a procedure that strengthens the cornea to slow or halt the progression of keratoconus.
- Intacs: These are small plastic rings inserted into the cornea to reshape it and improve vision.
- Corneal Transplantation: In advanced cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy one.
The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s specific condition and its severity. Early diagnosis and regular monitoring by an eye care specialist are crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each person with keratoconus.
While it’s possible to wear glasses for keratoconus, their effectiveness can be limited. Even after stabilizing the corneal surface as much as possible, it remains relatively irregular compared to a “normal” eye. This irregularity can compromise visual acuity, making customised contact lenses a preferable option for clearer vision.
- Customised contact lenses: Often provide a much better quality of vision by conforming better to the irregular corneal shape.
- T-CAT procedure: May enable some patients to switch to simpler soft daily or monthly lenses for improved comfort compared to rigid or scleral lenses.
- Minor prescriptions: In cases where any remaining prescription is very minor, glasses may still be an option.
Choosing the right vision correction method depends on individual factors and the extent of corneal irregularity. Your eye care specialist can recommend the best option based on your specific needs and condition.
Soft contact lenses moulds to the shape of the cornea, which, if very distorted from Keratoconus, can mean limited improvement in vision.
In contrast, rigid or scleral lenses lenses are customised to fit to the unique shape of each cornea. They effectively “mask” the corneal distortion, resulting in improved vision quality.
After CXL treatment, the corneal surface is much more regular and therefore more responsive to a lens. Once the lens-fit is improved, vision is enhanced and lenses become more comfortable.
Additionally, the Accuvision Team is highly experienced and specialised in customised contact lens fits. This is how many of our patients achieve comfortable vision quality, even if they’ve struggled with lenses previously.