Keratoconus Treatment in Mission Viejo, California
Keratoconus — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule an appointment promptly. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Key Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Frequent prescription changes
- Difficulty seeing at night
Treatment Options
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
- Scleral Contact Lenses
- Intacs Corneal Implants
- Corneal Transplant
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and gradually bulges outward into a cone shape. This abnormal shape deflects light as it enters the eye, causing distorted vision. Expert treatment including corneal cross-linking, specialty contact lenses, and advanced surgical options.
Pediatric corneal conditions like keratoconus require specialized attention. Mission Viejo parents should watch for squinting, frequent eye rubbing, and light sensitivity—early signs that warrant prompt evaluation.
Looking for Specialized Keratoconus Care?
For comprehensive keratoconus care, visit our dedicated Keratoconus Center at keratocones.com.
Dr. Bonakdar on Keratoconus
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert keratoconus diagnosis and treatment for patients in Mission Viejo 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 keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition where the clear front surface of your eye (the cornea) gradually thins and bulges into a cone shape. This distorts your vision, making things look blurry or wavy. It usually starts in the teenage years and progresses through your 20s and 30s.
Can keratoconus be cured?
Keratoconus cannot be completely cured, but it can be effectively managed. Corneal cross-linking is a procedure that strengthens the cornea and stops the disease from getting worse in over 95% of patients. Specialty lenses then restore clear vision.
What happens if keratoconus is not treated?
Without treatment, keratoconus typically gets worse over time. The cornea continues to thin and bulge, causing increasingly blurry vision that glasses cannot fix. In severe cases, corneal scarring develops, and a corneal transplant may become the only option to restore sight.
How is keratoconus diagnosed?
Keratoconus is diagnosed with a painless imaging test called corneal topography. This creates a detailed map of your cornea's shape, revealing any thinning or bulging. Your eye doctor may also measure corneal thickness with a pachymeter.
What are scleral lenses for keratoconus?
Scleral lenses are large-diameter contact lenses that rest on the white part of your eye instead of directly on the cornea. They create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, providing sharp vision and all-day comfort for keratoconus patients.
What are the symptoms of Keratoconus?
Parents and families in Mission Viejo should watch for these symptoms in both children and adults, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Frequent prescription changes
- Difficulty seeing at night
What happens if keratoconus is not treated?
Without proper diagnosis and treatment, keratoconus can lead to:
- Progressive corneal thinning leading to severe vision distortion
- Scarring of the cornea that cannot be corrected with glasses
- Need for corneal transplant surgery in advanced cases
- Inability to wear standard contact lenses
- Significant impact on driving, reading, and daily activities
- Potential legal blindness without intervention
How is Keratoconus treated?
We work with Mission Viejo families to select treatments that fit both the patient's needs and the family's schedule, with clear instructions parents and patients can follow at home:
Standard Care vs. Specialized Treatment for Keratoconus
| Aspect | Standard Approach | Specialized Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Vision Correction | Glasses or soft contacts | Scleral lenses or corneal cross-linking |
| Disease Progression | Not addressed | Cross-linking halts progression in 95%+ cases |
| Comfort | Poor fit due to irregular cornea | Scleral lenses vault over cornea for comfort |
| Visual Clarity | Limited correction for irregular astigmatism | Crisp vision through fluid-filled lens system |
| Long-term Outcome | Continued deterioration likely | Stabilized cornea with preserved vision |
Keratoconus FAQs for Mission Viejo Patients
Common questions from Mission Viejo patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Keratoconus Care for Mission Viejo Residents
If your child has been diagnosed with keratoconus, our Mission Viejo-area practice offers specialized pediatric keratoconus care including scleral lens fittings sized appropriately for younger patients and careful monitoring of progression during the teenage years.
About Mission Viejo
Largest master-planned community in the US with exceptional schools and safety
Population: 94,000+
Languages Spoken in Mission Viejo
Our practice serves the diverse Mission Viejo community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Mission Viejo
- Pediatric eye exams and vision screening
- Myopia control and management
- Sports vision for young athletes
- Digital eye strain from screens
- Learning-related vision problems
Conveniently Located Near Mission Viejo Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Mission Viejo patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 30 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.
801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get DirectionsMission Viejo Neighborhoods We Serve
- Lake Mission Viejo
- Mission Viejo High School Area
- Oso Creek
Zip codes: 92691, 92692, 92694
Don't Delay Treatment for Keratoconus
Without timely care, keratoconus can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Mission Viejo patients.
Why Mission Viejo Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Keratoconus
Corneal Specialty Practice
Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including keratoconus, with advanced slit lamp and topography diagnostics.
Scleral Lens Expertise
Custom scleral and specialty contact lens fittings for irregular corneas, dry eye, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
Same-Day Urgent Visits
Mission Viejo patients with acute corneal symptoms can often be seen the same day for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Coordinated Surgical Care
When corneal surgery is needed, we coordinate with top corneal surgeons and manage your complete pre- and post-operative care.
Your Keratoconus Specialist in Mission Viejo
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating keratoconus 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.
Patient Stories from Mission Viejo
See why your neighbors in Mission Viejo 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."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Keratoconus Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for Mission Viejo and Orange County residents.