Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Treatment in Laguna Woods, California
Pellucid Marginal Degeneration — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- Progressive blurring of vision
- High irregular astigmatism not correctable with glasses
- Distorted or ghosted images
- Difficulty with night driving
- Frequent prescription changes
Treatment Options
- Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) for Progression
- Pentacam Corneal Tomography Monitoring
- Corneal Transplant (severe cases)
- Specialty RGP Contact Lenses
Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) is a progressive corneal thinning disorder where the inferior peripheral cornea thins in a band pattern, causing the cornea above to protrude forward. Unlike keratoconus, which thins at the apex, PMD thins at the periphery. This creates a characteristic 'against-the-rule' or oblique astigmatism that is very difficult to correct with glasses or standard contact lenses. Scleral lenses are often the best non-surgical solution, vaulting over the entire irregular surface to provide clear, stable vision.
For Laguna Woods's mature residents, pellucid marginal degeneration management takes into account age-related changes, current medications, and overall health goals to create a practical, effective treatment plan.
Dr. Bonakdar on Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert pellucid marginal degeneration diagnosis and treatment for patients in Laguna Woods 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 Pellucid Marginal Degeneration?
Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) is a progressive corneal thinning disorder where the inferior peripheral cornea thins in a band pattern, causing the cornea above to protrude forward. Unlike keratoconus, which thins at the apex, PMD thins at the periphery. This creates a characteristic 'against-the-rule' or oblique astigmatism that is very difficult to correct with glasses or standard contact lenses. Scleral lenses are often the best non-surgical solution, vaulting over the entire irregular surface to provide clear, stable vision.
How is Pellucid Marginal Degeneration treated?
Treatment options include Scleral Contact Lens Fitting, Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) for Progression, Pentacam Corneal Tomography Monitoring, Corneal Transplant (severe cases). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.
What are the symptoms of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration?
Common symptoms include Progressive blurring of vision, High irregular astigmatism not correctable with glasses, Distorted or ghosted images, Difficulty with night driving, Frequent prescription changes. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.
What are the symptoms of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration?
Laguna Woods's active adults should be particularly attentive to these warning signs, as age-related changes can cause symptoms to develop gradually:
- Progressive blurring of vision
- High irregular astigmatism not correctable with glasses
- Distorted or ghosted images
- Difficulty with night driving
- Frequent prescription changes
- Inferior corneal thinning on topography
How is Pellucid Marginal Degeneration treated?
For Laguna Woods's mature patients, treatment selection accounts for existing medications, systemic health conditions, and quality-of-life priorities:
Pellucid Marginal Degeneration FAQs for Laguna Woods Patients
Common questions from Laguna Woods patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (949) 323-3600
We don't take Medi-Cal
Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Care for Laguna Woods Residents
Laguna Woods patients seeking care for pellucid marginal degeneration benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. For Laguna Woods's active adult community, we take a comprehensive approach that considers age-related risk factors, medication interactions, and quality-of-life priorities. 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 Laguna Woods
Active adult 55+ retirement community with exceptional amenities
Population: 16,000+
Languages Spoken in Laguna Woods
Our practice serves the diverse Laguna Woods community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Laguna Woods
- Cataracts and cataract surgery co-management
- Glaucoma screening and management
- Macular degeneration monitoring
- Diabetic eye disease screening
- Low vision aids and rehabilitation
Conveniently Located Near Laguna Woods Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Laguna Woods patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Laguna Woods
Laguna Woods 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 DirectionsLaguna Woods Neighborhoods We Serve
- Laguna Woods Village
Zip codes: 92637
Why Laguna Woods Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Corneal Specialty Practice
Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including pellucid marginal degeneration, 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
Laguna Woods 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 Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Specialist in Laguna Woods
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating pellucid marginal degeneration and complex eye conditions. A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.
Patient Stories from Laguna Woods
See why your neighbors in Laguna Woods 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 Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for Laguna Woods and Orange County residents.
Related Conditions
Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Treatment in Nearby Cities
Also serving nearby Orange County cities
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Laguna Hills
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Nellie Gail Ranch
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Aliso Viejo
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in El Toro
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Irvine Spectrum
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Mission Viejo
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Lake Forest
- Pellucid Marginal Degeneration in Shady Canyon