Keratoconus
The best-known form of corneal ectasia.
Eye Conditions
Corneal Ectasia & Vision Correction Options in Doral
What Is Corneal Ectasia?
“Corneal ectasia” is a general term for a cornea that weakens and changes shape, often bulging forward.
Keratoconus is one type of ectasia. It can also develop, uncommonly, after some refractive surgeries. When the curvature changes, light doesn't focus evenly and vision can lose sharpness.
Typical curvature
Altered curvature
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary from person to person, and not all of them always appear.
- Blurry vision
- Distorted or double images
- Halos around lights
- Glare
- Prescription changes
- Trouble seeing at night
Associated Factors
Ectasia can have different origins. These factors have been associated with it, but they are not absolute causes.
After refractive surgery
In a small number of cases it can develop after procedures like LASIK.
Eye rubbing
Vigorous eye rubbing has been linked to corneal weakening.
History
Your family and eye history are considered during the exam.
Diagnosis
It is assessed with a comprehensive eye exam. Depending on the case, it may include:
- Review of symptoms and history, including prior surgeries
- Evaluation of the cornea
- Measurements of corneal curvature and thickness
- Corneal topography or tomography when clinically indicated
The Evaluation Process
- Initial evaluation
- Symptom review
- Corneal evaluation
- Visual needs
- Correction options
- Individualized plan
Management Options
Vision management is decided individually. Options that may be considered include:
Eyeglasses
May be enough in some mild cases.
Gas permeable lenses
Rigid lenses that hold their shape on the eye.
Scleral lenses
Larger-diameter lenses that vault over the cornea.
Referral
When appropriate, you are referred to other professionals. Dr. Belkis Perez, OD does not perform surgery.
Gas Permeable Lenses
Gas permeable (RGP) lenses are rigid and keep their shape on the eye. A layer of tears forms between the lens and the cornea, which can compensate for part of the irregularity.
Fitting them takes precision, so it is done on a personalized basis.
More About Gas Permeable LensesScleral Lenses
Scleral lenses rest on the white of the eye instead of the cornea. The space they leave is filled with fluid, and the lens provides a smooth optical surface.
For some corneas with ectasia, they may be an option to consider.
More About Scleral Lenses- Scleral lens
- Cornea
- Space over the cornea (vault)
- Ocular surface (sclera)
Personalized Fitting
Design
The lens type and design are chosen based on the shape of your cornea.
Trial
How the lens sits, your vision and your comfort are evaluated.
Adjustments
Lens parameters are adjusted if needed.
Follow-up
Follow-up visits are scheduled based on your case.
How Can Dr. Belkis Perez, OD Help?
Every case of corneal ectasia is different. Dr. Belkis Perez, OD takes the time to understand how you see, what bothers you and what you need day to day before reviewing vision correction options.
If a specialty contact lens is considered, the fitting is personalized and includes follow-up care as appropriate for your case. When appropriate, referral to other eye care professionals is also considered.
- Evaluation of your vision and ocular surface
- Review of your history and symptoms
- Your visual needs: work, screens, driving, sports
- Personalized lens fitting when appropriate
- Follow-up care based on your case
Frequently asked questions
Related correction options
- Scleral Contact LensesScleral lenses are larger-diameter specialty lenses that rest on the white of the eye and vault over the cornea. They are often considered for irregular corneas.Explore
- Gas Permeable Contact LensesGas permeable lenses are rigid lenses that keep their shape on the eye and can provide sharp vision in certain cases, including some irregular corneas.Explore
- Condition
- Need
- Correction option
- Evaluation
- Appointment
General information only. It does not replace a professional exam; the right option is determined during a visit with Dr. Belkis Perez, OD.
Schedule your evaluation
Book your appointment with Dr. Belkis Perez, OD to review the best option for your eyes.
Schedule Your Evaluation