Keratoconus and Laser Eye Surgery: What You Need to Know
Introduction
Keratoconus is a complex eye condition that affects the shape of the cornea, causing blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and visual distortions. I am often asked if laser eye surgery, such as LASIK, can treat the condition and restore clear vision. At Bellamy Eyecare, we believe in providing clear, expert-led guidance to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your eye health.
Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea is not thick enough and so pressure from within the eye causes it to bulge outwards into a cone shape. The cornea is the main focusing lens for the eye so if it is not in the correct shape then there will be visual problems. These problems cannot be fully corrected with standard glasses or soft contact lenses. Symptoms often include:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased light sensitivity
- Frequent prescription changes
- Difficulty with night vision
Can Laser Eye Surgery Treat Keratoconus?
Traditional laser eye surgery, such as LASIK involves removing some corneal tissue to change its shape. As a “side effect” this then makes the cornea thinner. You can see that if the cornea is weakened because it is already too thin then removing more tissue could quite possibly make things worse. There is an exception to this which we will come back to.
Fortunately, there are other advanced treatments designed specifically for keratoconus.
Alternative Treatments for Keratoconus
If you’ve been told that LASIK isn’t an option, there are still effective solutions to help improve your vision and manage keratoconus:
1. Glasses or normal contact lenses
In the early stages, it may be possible to achieve acceptable vision with glasses or standard contact lenses. Vision may not be perfect but for many people it is good enough.
2. Specialist Contact Lenses
As the condition progresses then adequate vision may not be attainable with glasses and specialist contact lenses for keratoconus may be necessary.
Bellamy Eyecare provides expert fittings for semi-scleral, Rose K and hybrid contact lenses. These lenses create a smooth optical surface, correcting vision distortion without putting pressure on the cornea.
3. Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Corneal Cross-Linking is a minimally invasive treatment that strengthens the cornea, slowing or halting keratoconus progression. This procedure uses riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and UV light to reinforce the corneal structure.
4. Intacs (Corneal Implants)
Intacs are tiny, curved implants placed within the cornea to help flatten its shape and improve vision. This is often recommended for patients whose keratoconus has progressed beyond the help of contact lenses.
Transepithelial PRK
Corneal cross-linking (CXL) has been shown to be effective at stabilising the cornea and giving it back strength. There is current research looking at treating with CXL and then, sometime later, laser treatment to try to return the cornea to a more normal shape providing good vision with glasses once more. This may be a solution for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions: Keratoconus & Laser Eye Surgery
Q. Can keratoconus be treated with laser eye surgery or other refractive procedures like LASEK or TransPRK?
A. Most forms of laser surgery (including LASEK and TransPRK) are unsuitable for keratoconus due to the thinning and structural weakness of the cornea. These procedures increase the risk of serious complications, such as vision loss or further irregularity. Instead, patients may benefit from treatments like corneal cross-linking, phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) in some cases, or alternative options like implantable contact lenses (ICLs).
Q. What are the safest alternatives to laser eye surgery for improving vision in keratoconus?
A. Non-laser alternatives include RGP, scleral, or hybrid contact lenses for vision correction, as well as surgical options like intracorneal ring segments or ICLs, which are implanted in front of the natural lens. These procedures often result in better quality vision outcomes for keratoconus patients. Your ophthalmologist or consultant will determine the best way forward based on your corneal thickness, topography, and personal goals
Q. What are the risks, outcomes, and recovery process of keratoconus treatments?
A. Like any medical condition, keratoconus treatments come with risks and benefits. Procedures such as cross-linking help prevent progression but may cause temporary discomfort during the recovery phase. Surgical solutions like ring segments or transplants can improve visual acuity but carry their own complication profiles. A detailed evaluation with an experienced surgeon is essential to understand your potential outcomes
Q. How do I know if I’m suitable for ICLs or corneal implants instead of laser correction?
A. Suitability for ICLs or ring segments depends on factors such as corneal thickness, the degree of astigmatism or myopia, and the stability of your keratoconus. These options are often explored when contact lenses no longer offer sufficient vision correction, or if patients are not candidates for corneal transplants. Bellamy Eyecare works with trusted consultants and surgeons to guide each patient through this process.
Q. What’s the difference between keratoconus and other eye conditions like astigmatism, cataracts, ptosis, or macular degeneration?
A. Keratoconus is a progressive disease affecting the cornea’s shape and structure, while astigmatism is a common refractive error that can often be corrected with standard glasses. Cataracts, ptosis, and macular degeneration are separate eye conditions affecting different parts of the eye. Some patients may experience more than one condition, which is why regular eye examinations and personalised advice are so important.
Q. What tests are involved in diagnosing keratoconus and planning treatment?
A. Diagnosis requires advanced imaging tools such as corneal topography, pachymetry (to assess thickness), and slit lamp evaluation. These tests help identify signs of corneal instability and track progression. Bellamy Eyecare uses high-precision diagnostic tools to ensure safety, accuracy, and well-informed decision-making.
Q. What should I ask during my keratoconus consultation?
A. Some helpful questions to ask your surgeon or optometrist include:
- What are the success rates of these treatments?
- What’s the expected recovery time?
- What are the benefits and risks in my specific case?
- Will I need additional treatments, like ICLs, lens exchange, or laser capsulotomy for PCO or other post-operative errors in the future?
Q. Are financial options or payment plans available for keratoconus treatment?
A. Yes, many clinics—such as Bellamy Eyecare—offer finance plans or memberships like Eyeplan to help spread the cost of treatment. This may include specialist contacts, regular assessments, and follow-up services, ensuring you don’t compromise on quality care due to cost.
Q. How can I find reliable keratoconus information online?
A. We recommend referring to trusted UK sites like the NHS or Moorfields, as well as Bellamy Eyecare’s articles and newsletters. You can also follow our educational content on Instagram, YouTube, or sign up for our newsletter to receive updates and expert advice.
Q. Where can I find Bellamy Eyecare’s services and locations?
A. You can explore our full menu of keratoconus diagnostics and treatment options on our site. We have clinic locations in Leicester and Irthlingborough and serve surrounding areas across the East Midlands. To make an enquiry or book a consultation, simply visit our contact page or give us a call.
Expert-Led Care for Keratoconus at Bellamy Eyecare
At Bellamy Eyecare, we understand how frustrating and concerning keratoconus can be. That’s why we offer comprehensive, specialist-led eye care tailored to your unique vision needs. Unlike high street opticians, our team uses advanced diagnostic technology to detect even the smallest changes in your eye health, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment plan.
Book a Consultation Today
If you have keratoconus or suspect you may be developing it, early intervention is key. Book an appointment today with Bellamy Eyecare for an expert assessment and personalised guidance on the best treatment options for you.
By prioritising cutting-edge treatments, expert-led care, and patient-focused solutions, Bellamy Eyecare is here to help you see clearly and confidently.