Skip to main content
Pediatric Ophthalmology·Laguna Hills, Orange County

Sturge-Weber Syndrome Treatment in Laguna Hills, California

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

Sturge-Weber Syndrome (SWS), also called encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis, is a rare congenital neurocutaneous disorder characterized by a facial port-wine stain (nevus flammeus) in the V1 trigeminal distribution, leptomeningeal angioma, and ocular abnormalities. Up to 70% of patients with port-wine stains involving the upper eyelid develop glaucoma, which can be present at birth or develop later in childhood.

Laguna Hills residents managing sturge-weber syndrome benefit from our efficient, comprehensive appointment structure—thorough evaluation and clear treatment planning in visits designed to respect your time.

Dr. Bonakdar on Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert sturge-weber syndrome diagnosis and treatment for patients in Laguna Hills 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 Sturge-Weber Syndrome?

Sturge-Weber Syndrome (SWS), also called encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis, is a rare congenital neurocutaneous disorder characterized by a facial port-wine stain (nevus flammeus) in the V1 trigeminal distribution, leptomeningeal angioma, and ocular abnormalities. Up to 70% of patients with port-wine stains involving the upper eyelid develop glaucoma, which can be present at birth or develop later in childhood.

How is Sturge-Weber Syndrome treated?

Treatment options include Early and aggressive glaucoma management, Glaucoma surgery (goniotomy, trabeculotomy, tube shunts), Lifelong IOP monitoring, Treatment of choroidal hemangioma if needed. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Sturge-Weber Syndrome?

Common symptoms include Facial port-wine stain birthmark, Glaucoma (often congenital or juvenile onset), Enlarged eye (buphthalmos) in infants, Choroidal hemangioma, Episcleral hemangioma (dilated vessels). If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Sturge-Weber Syndrome?

If you or a family member in Laguna Hills experience any of the following symptoms, scheduling an evaluation sooner rather than later leads to better outcomes:

  • Facial port-wine stain birthmark
  • Glaucoma (often congenital or juvenile onset)
  • Enlarged eye (buphthalmos) in infants
  • Choroidal hemangioma
  • Episcleral hemangioma (dilated vessels)
  • Heterochromia (different colored iris)
  • Visual field loss from glaucoma

How is Sturge-Weber Syndrome treated?

For Laguna Hills residents, we design treatment plans that balance effectiveness with convenience—minimizing follow-up visits while ensuring optimal outcomes:

Early and aggressive glaucoma management
Glaucoma surgery (goniotomy, trabeculotomy, tube shunts)
Lifelong IOP monitoring
Treatment of choroidal hemangioma if needed
Laser or PDT for choroidal lesions
Amblyopia treatment if present
Coordination with neurology for seizure management

Sturge-Weber Syndrome FAQs for Laguna Hills Patients

Common questions from Laguna Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose sturge-weber syndrome using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Laguna Hills residents appreciate our efficient diagnostic process—thorough evaluation and results discussion in a single appointment that respects your schedule.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for sturge-weber syndrome including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Laguna Hills commuters, we prioritize treatments that provide stable vision for driving and work, with follow-up schedules that minimize time away from your routine.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Conveniently located for Laguna Hills residents with ample parking and easy access, typically within a 15-25 minute drive from most neighborhoods.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for sturge-weber syndrome diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

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

Sturge-Weber Syndrome Care for Laguna Hills Residents

Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a systemic condition with important ocular manifestations that require specialized monitoring. Laguna Hills families trust our practice because we combine modern technology with the personal attention of a neighborhood eye doctor. Patients from Laguna Hills with sturge-weber syndrome benefit from our comprehensive approach: we screen for the specific ocular findings associated with this condition, document baseline and changes, and communicate findings to your managing physician. Regular surveillance helps detect treatable complications early.

About Laguna Hills

Suburban community with shopping centers and equestrian areas

Population: 31,000+

Middle-class familiesShoppersEquestriansCommuter professionals

Languages Spoken in Laguna Hills

Our practice serves the diverse Laguna Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishFarsiKorean

Eye Health Priorities for Laguna Hills

  • Whole-family eye care
  • School vision screenings
  • Contact lens fittings for all ages
  • Progressive lens consultations
  • Annual comprehensive exams

Conveniently Located Near Laguna Hills Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Laguna Hills patients living near:

Laguna Hills Mall
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center
Laguna Hills Community Center
Nellie Gail Ranch
Sheep Hills Park

Getting to Our Office from Laguna Hills

Drive Time
30 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
13.4 mi

Laguna Hills 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

Laguna Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Nellie Gail Ranch
  • Laguna Hills Village
  • Moulton Ranch

Zip codes: 92653, 92654

Don't Delay Treatment for Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Without timely care, sturge-weber syndrome can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Laguna Hills patients.

Why Laguna Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Child-Friendly Practice

Age-appropriate testing and a reassuring environment help Laguna Hills's youngest patients feel comfortable during their exam.

Myopia & Amblyopia Treatment

Evidence-based treatment protocols for sturge-weber syndrome with regular follow-up to ensure progress.

School Vision Support

We communicate with schools and pediatricians about visual accommodations your child may need for academic success.

Family Scheduling

Schedule siblings and parents together to make eye care convenient for the whole family.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Sturge-Weber Syndrome Specialist in Laguna Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating sturge-weber syndrome 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 Laguna Hills

See why your neighbors in Laguna Hills 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 Sturge-Weber Syndrome Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Laguna Hills and Orange County residents.