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Ocular Surface Disease·Aliso Viejo, Orange County

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid Treatment in Aliso Viejo, California

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

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP), also called mucous membrane pemphigoid, is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes progressive scarring of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane lining the inner eyelids and covering the white of the eye). The scarring leads to symblepharon (adhesions), fornix shortening, trichiasis (inward-turning lashes), dry eye, and eventual corneal opacification if untreated. Scleral lenses can provide both vision correction and corneal protection in patients with stable disease, maintaining a hydrated ocular surface over scarred tissue.

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid spreads easily among Aliso Viejo children in school and daycare settings. We provide accurate diagnosis to distinguish viral, bacterial, and allergic forms—each requiring different treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert ocular cicatricial pemphigoid diagnosis and treatment for patients in Aliso 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 Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid?

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP), also called mucous membrane pemphigoid, is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes progressive scarring of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane lining the inner eyelids and covering the white of the eye). The scarring leads to symblepharon (adhesions), fornix shortening, trichiasis (inward-turning lashes), dry eye, and eventual corneal opacification if untreated. Scleral lenses can provide both vision correction and corneal protection in patients with stable disease, maintaining a hydrated ocular surface over scarred tissue.

How is Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid treated?

Treatment options include Systemic Immunosuppressive Therapy (dapsone, mycophenolate, rituximab), Scleral Contact Lens Fitting, Punctal Occlusion, Trichiasis Management. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid?

Common symptoms include Chronic eye redness and irritation, Progressive conjunctival scarring, Symblepharon (adhesions between eyelid and eyeball), Trichiasis (eyelashes turning inward), Severe dry eye. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid?

Parents and families in Aliso Viejo should watch for these symptoms in both children and adults, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes:

  • Chronic eye redness and irritation
  • Progressive conjunctival scarring
  • Symblepharon (adhesions between eyelid and eyeball)
  • Trichiasis (eyelashes turning inward)
  • Severe dry eye
  • Decreased vision from corneal scarring
  • Blistering of skin or oral mucosa (may also occur)

How is Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid treated?

We work with Aliso 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:

Systemic Immunosuppressive Therapy (dapsone, mycophenolate, rituximab)
Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
Punctal Occlusion
Trichiasis Management
Amniotic Membrane Transplant
Conjunctival Surgery for Symblepharon

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid FAQs for Aliso Viejo Patients

Common questions from Aliso Viejo patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose ocular cicatricial pemphigoid using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Aliso Viejo families, we provide age-appropriate testing for children and adults alike, with clear explanations that help parents understand their child's diagnosis.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for ocular cicatricial pemphigoid including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. We help Aliso Viejo families choose treatments that fit the patient's age and the family's schedule, with follow-up plans designed around school and work calendars.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. We offer before- and after-school appointment times for Aliso Viejo families, and can schedule siblings together to minimize trips to our office.
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, and Medicare for ocular cicatricial pemphigoid diagnosis and treatment. We don't take Medi-Cal. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid Care for Aliso Viejo Residents

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid is one of the conditions we evaluate frequently at our Aliso Viejo-area practice. We serve Aliso Viejo families by making appointments efficient and educational, ensuring parents understand their child's diagnosis and every patient leaves with a clear care plan. While many external eye conditions share similar symptoms—redness, irritation, discharge—accurate diagnosis is essential because the treatments differ significantly. We use careful clinical examination and, when needed, cultures or cytology to identify the specific cause and select the most effective targeted therapy.

About Aliso Viejo

Young master-planned community with active lifestyle and modern amenities

Population: 52,000+

Young professionalsFamilies with childrenTech workersActive lifestyle enthusiasts

Languages Spoken in Aliso Viejo

Our practice serves the diverse Aliso Viejo community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishMandarinKorean

Eye Health Priorities for Aliso 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 Aliso Viejo Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Aliso Viejo patients living near:

Aliso Viejo Town Center
Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center
Soka University
Grand Park
Aliso Viejo Country Club

Getting to Our Office from Aliso Viejo

Drive Time
30 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
14.2 mi

Aliso 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 Directions

Aliso Viejo Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Grand Park
  • Woodfield
  • Canyon View
  • Westridge

Zip codes: 92656

Why Aliso Viejo Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating ocular cicatricial pemphigoid.

Advanced Diagnostics

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

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and most major vision and medical insurance plans. We do not accept Medi-Cal.

Convenient for Aliso Viejo

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

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — Optometrist at EyeCare Center of Orange County specializing in keratoconus and scleral lenses
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — California-licensed Optometrist with 35+ years of specialty contact lens practice. Graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry.

Your Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid Specialist in Aliso Viejo

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating ocular cicatricial pemphigoid and complex eye conditions. A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsIllinois College of Optometry
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Aliso Viejo

See why your neighbors in Aliso 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."

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 Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Aliso Viejo and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal