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Congenital·San Clemente, Orange County

Coloboma Treatment in San Clemente, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

A coloboma is a missing piece of tissue in the eye structure (iris, retina, choroid, or optic nerve) present at birth. It looks like a keyhole pupil.

San Clemente's coastal environment can influence how coloboma presents and responds to treatment. Factors like UV exposure, wind, and marine air quality are considered in our evaluation and management approach.

Dr. Bonakdar on Coloboma

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert coloboma diagnosis and treatment for patients in San Clemente and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Coloboma?

A coloboma is a missing piece of tissue in the eye structure (iris, retina, choroid, or optic nerve) present at birth. It looks like a keyhole pupil.

How is Coloboma treated?

Treatment options include Sunglasses/Colored Contacts (for glare), Low Vision Aids, Surgery (rarely). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Coloboma?

Common symptoms include Keyhole-shaped pupil, Light sensitivity, Vision loss (if retina/nerve involved). If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Coloboma?

San Clemente residents may notice symptoms more acutely during outdoor activities—ocean glare, wind, and sand can amplify visual disturbances and discomfort:

  • Keyhole-shaped pupil
  • Light sensitivity
  • Vision loss (if retina/nerve involved)

How is Coloboma treated?

For San Clemente's coastal residents, we consider your active outdoor lifestyle when recommending treatments—ensuring solutions work for beach activities, water sports, and sun exposure:

Sunglasses/Colored Contacts (for glare)
Low Vision Aids
Surgery (rarely)

Coloboma FAQs for San Clemente Patients

Common questions from San Clemente patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose coloboma using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For San Clemente's coastal residents, we also assess environmental factors like UV exposure and salt air irritation that may influence symptoms and diagnosis.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for coloboma including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. We consider San Clemente's active beach lifestyle when selecting treatments—ensuring your correction works for water sports, outdoor activities, and sun exposure.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. We know San Clemente residents value flexibility—we offer early morning appointments so you can still enjoy your coastal afternoons.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for coloboma diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Coloboma Care for San Clemente Residents

San Clemente patients seeking care for coloboma benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Living in San Clemente's coastal environment adds unique considerations—UV exposure, wind, and salt air can influence both symptoms and treatment choices. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About San Clemente

Spanish Village by the Sea with surf culture and coastal lifestyle

Population: 65,000+

SurfersRetireesBeach lifestyle enthusiastsArtistsMilitary families

Languages Spoken in San Clemente

Our practice serves the diverse San Clemente community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for San Clemente

  • UV damage and photokeratitis from ocean glare
  • Pterygium (surfer's eye) from wind and sun exposure
  • Dry eye from salt air and coastal winds
  • Sports vision needs for water activities

Conveniently Located Near San Clemente Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for San Clemente patients living near:

San Clemente Pier
San Clemente Outlets
Casa Romantica Cultural Center
Trestles Beach
San Clemente State Beach
Richard Nixon Western White House

Getting to Our Office from San Clemente

Drive Time
45 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
26.5 mi

San Clemente patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 45 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

San Clemente Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Downtown San Clemente
  • San Clemente Pier Area
  • Talega
  • Marblehead Coastal

Zip codes: 92672, 92673, 92674

Why San Clemente Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Coloboma

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating coloboma.

Advanced Diagnostics

OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most major vision and medical insurance plans.

Convenient for San Clemente

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from San Clemente and surrounding communities.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Coloboma Specialist in San Clemente

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating coloboma and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from San Clemente

See why your neighbors in San Clemente trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Coloboma Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for San Clemente and Orange County residents.