Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward, creating an irregular shape that distorts vision. Treatment focuses on stabilizing the cornea and improving visual quality while preserving as much natural corneal tissue as possible. At Milwaukee Eye Surgeons in Brookfield, Dr. Kenneth Weinlander provides modern care for keratoconus, tailoring treatment to each patient’s condition.
Early Care Before Advanced Procedures
Many patients begin treatment before surgery becomes necessary. In the earlier stages of keratoconus, glasses or specially designed contact lenses may help improve vision by compensating for the cornea’s irregular shape. These lenses can create a smoother optical surface, allowing light to focus more clearly on the retina.
Regular monitoring of corneal thickness and shape in the early stages helps identify progression and guide treatment.
Corneal Crosslinking to Stabilize the Cornea
When keratoconus shows signs of progression, corneal crosslinking often becomes an important treatment option. This procedure strengthens the cornea’s structure using riboflavin eye drops and controlled ultraviolet light. The treatment helps reinforce collagen fibers within the cornea, making the tissue more stable.
Crosslinking does not correct vision directly, but it can slow or stop further weakening of the cornea. Stabilizing the cornea early may help prevent the condition from advancing to more severe stages.
Treatments That Improve Corneal Shape
Some patients benefit from procedures designed to improve the cornea’s structure and curvature. Techniques such as corneal tissue implants or donor corneal tissue procedures can strengthen and reshape the cornea.
These treatments improve visual quality and help patients tolerate contact lenses more comfortably.
Cornea Transplants for Advanced Keratoconus
When keratoconus becomes more advanced, surgical treatment may offer the best chance of restoring clearer vision. Certain procedures replace damaged corneal layers while preserving healthy tissue when possible. In more severe cases, a full corneal transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty or PKP) may be recommended if the cornea develops significant scarring or structural instability.
Dr. Weinlander performs advanced eye procedures in our state-of-the-art surgical suite at Milwaukee Eye Surgeons rather than a hospital to make keratoconus care more convenient and cost-effective.
Personalized Keratoconus Care in Brookfield
Patients in Brookfield, Waukesha, and Menomonee Falls receive top-level keratoconus care at Milwaukee Eye Surgeons. Call 414-377-5550 to book an appointment and learn more.
