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Ocular Surface Disease·University Hills, Orange County

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) Treatment in University Hills, California

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

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and its severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), are life-threatening immune-mediated reactions — usually triggered by medications — that devastate the skin and mucous membranes, including the ocular surface. Ocular complications occur in up to 75% of SJS/TEN patients and include severe dry eye, conjunctival scarring, symblepharon (adhesions between eyelid and eyeball), corneal scarring, limbal stem cell deficiency, and chronic pain. Scleral lenses serve as a prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem (PROSE), providing continuous hydration, pain relief, and vision restoration when other treatments have failed.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) is common but its treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. University Hills residents experiencing persistent eye surface symptoms benefit from professional evaluation rather than self-treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular) diagnosis and treatment for patients in University 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 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular)?

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and its severe form, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), are life-threatening immune-mediated reactions — usually triggered by medications — that devastate the skin and mucous membranes, including the ocular surface. Ocular complications occur in up to 75% of SJS/TEN patients and include severe dry eye, conjunctival scarring, symblepharon (adhesions between eyelid and eyeball), corneal scarring, limbal stem cell deficiency, and chronic pain. Scleral lenses serve as a prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem (PROSE), providing continuous hydration, pain relief, and vision restoration when other treatments have failed.

How is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) treated?

Treatment options include Scleral Contact Lens Fitting (PROSE), Amniotic Membrane Transplant, Limbal Stem Cell Transplant, Autologous Serum Eye Drops. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular)?

Common symptoms include Severe chronic dry eye, Persistent eye pain and light sensitivity, Corneal scarring and neovascularization, Conjunctival scarring and symblepharon, Recurrent corneal erosions. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular)?

University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Severe chronic dry eye
  • Persistent eye pain and light sensitivity
  • Corneal scarring and neovascularization
  • Conjunctival scarring and symblepharon
  • Recurrent corneal erosions
  • Vision loss from ocular surface damage
  • Eyelid malposition from scarring

How is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) treated?

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

Scleral Contact Lens Fitting (PROSE)
Amniotic Membrane Transplant
Limbal Stem Cell Transplant
Autologous Serum Eye Drops
Punctal Occlusion
Anti-inflammatory Therapy
Moisture Chamber Goggles

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) FAQs for University Hills Patients

Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. University Hills patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each University Hills patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from University Hills, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, and Medicare for stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular) 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

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) Care for University Hills Residents

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) is one of the conditions we evaluate frequently at our University Hills-area practice. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. 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 University Hills

Academic community surrounding UC Irvine

Population: 15,000+

University studentsFaculty and staffGraduate studentsInternational students

Languages Spoken in University Hills

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

EnglishMandarinKoreanVietnameseFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for University Hills

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

Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks

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

University of California, Irvine
UCI Medical Center
Aldrich Park
University Town Center

Getting to Our Office from University Hills

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
6.7 mi

University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

University Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • University Park
  • UCI Campus Area

Zip codes: 92617

Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular)

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular).

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 University Hills

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from University Hills 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 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) Specialist in University Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating stevens-johnson syndrome (ocular) 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 University Hills

See why your neighbors in University 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 Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (Ocular) Consultation

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

Call (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal