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Pediatric Ophthalmology·Lemon Heights, Orange County

Sturge-Weber Syndrome Treatment in Lemon Heights, 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.

Lemon Heights patients experiencing sturge-weber syndrome benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

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 Lemon Heights 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?

Lemon Heights residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • 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?

Treatment for Lemon Heights patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

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 Lemon Heights Patients

Common questions from Lemon Heights 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. Lemon Heights patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for sturge-weber syndrome including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each Lemon Heights patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from Lemon Heights, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
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 Lemon Heights Residents

Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a systemic condition with important ocular manifestations that require specialized monitoring. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Lemon Heights residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Patients from Lemon Heights 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 Lemon Heights

Hillside neighborhood with citrus heritage and scenic views

Population: 4,000+

HomeownersNature loversFamilies

Languages Spoken in Lemon Heights

Our practice serves the diverse Lemon Heights community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Lemon Heights

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near Lemon Heights Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Lemon Heights patients living near:

Santiago Canyon College
Irvine Regional Park
Orange Hill Restaurant

Getting to Our Office from Lemon Heights

Drive Time
15 min
Primary Route
55 Freeway
Distance
4.6 mi

Lemon Heights patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 55 Freeway in approximately 15 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

Lemon Heights Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Lemon Heights community

Zip codes: 92865

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 Lemon Heights patients.

Why Lemon Heights Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Child-Friendly Practice

Age-appropriate testing and a reassuring environment help Lemon Heights'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 Lemon Heights

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 Lemon Heights

See why your neighbors in Lemon Heights 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 Lemon Heights and Orange County residents.