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Neuro-Ophthalmology·Dover Shores, Orange County

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) Treatment in Dover Shores, California

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

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited mitochondrial disease causing rapid, painless vision loss, typically affecting young adult males between ages 15-35. The condition is caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA affecting complex I of the respiratory chain. Vision loss usually begins in one eye, with the second eye following within weeks to months, leading to severe bilateral central vision loss.

Dover Shores patients experiencing leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Dover Shores 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 Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)?

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited mitochondrial disease causing rapid, painless vision loss, typically affecting young adult males between ages 15-35. The condition is caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA affecting complex I of the respiratory chain. Vision loss usually begins in one eye, with the second eye following within weeks to months, leading to severe bilateral central vision loss.

How is Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) treated?

Treatment options include Idebenone therapy (approved in some countries), Avoiding tobacco and alcohol (critical for at-risk carriers), Gene therapy clinical trials, Low vision rehabilitation and aids. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)?

Common symptoms include Sudden painless vision loss in one eye, Second eye affected within weeks to months, Central scotoma (blind spot) causing difficulty with reading and faces, Dyschromatopsia (color vision problems), Pseudopapilledema (swollen-appearing optic disc) early on. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)?

Dover Shores residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Sudden painless vision loss in one eye
  • Second eye affected within weeks to months
  • Central scotoma (blind spot) causing difficulty with reading and faces
  • Dyschromatopsia (color vision problems)
  • Pseudopapilledema (swollen-appearing optic disc) early on
  • Optic atrophy develops over months
  • Visual acuity often 20/200 or worse

How is Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) treated?

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

Idebenone therapy (approved in some countries)
Avoiding tobacco and alcohol (critical for at-risk carriers)
Gene therapy clinical trials
Low vision rehabilitation and aids
Occupational therapy
Genetic counseling for maternal relatives
Regular monitoring of at-risk family members

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) FAQs for Dover Shores Patients

Common questions from Dover Shores patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Dover Shores patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each Dover Shores 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 Dover Shores, 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 leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

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

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) Care for Dover Shores Residents

Dover Shores patients seeking care for leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Dover Shores residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. 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 Dover Shores

Waterfront community on Upper Newport Bay with boat access

Population: 4,000+

BoatersWater enthusiastsAffluent families

Languages Spoken in Dover Shores

Our practice serves the diverse Dover Shores community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Dover Shores

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

Conveniently Located Near Dover Shores Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Dover Shores patients living near:

Dover Shores Waterfront
Upper Newport Bay
Back Bay Science Center
Dover Drive Corridor

Getting to Our Office from Dover Shores

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
8.5 mi

Dover Shores patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 25 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

Dover Shores Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Dover Shores proper

Zip codes: 92660

Don't Delay Treatment for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)

Without timely care, leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Dover Shores patients.

Why Dover Shores Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)

Neuro-Ophthalmic Assessment

Thorough evaluation of leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) including pupil testing, motility assessment, and visual field analysis.

Urgent Neuroimaging Coordination

When Dover Shores patients present with concerning neuro-ophthalmic signs, we expedite MRI and CT referrals.

Multidisciplinary Approach

We collaborate with neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neuroradiologists for conditions that bridge eye and brain.

35+ Years of Clinical Judgment

Distinguishing urgent neuro-ophthalmic findings from benign variants requires experience—Dr. Bonakdar has been making these distinctions since 1991.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) Specialist in Dover Shores

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating leber hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon) 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 Dover Shores

See why your neighbors in Dover Shores 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 Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Dover Shores and Orange County residents.