Keratoconus is a condition in which the corneal tissue weakens, thins and bulges forward into a cone shape, blurring vision, increasing astigmatism and constantly changing the glasses prescription. It usually begins in the teens or twenties and is accelerated by vigorous eye rubbing and allergy. The name can be alarming, but with early diagnosis its progression can be halted and good vision preserved in most cases. This is why corneal imaging before any vision-correction surgery matters: laser on an undiagnosed keratoconic cornea harms it.
Signs & who it is for
- A glasses prescription that keeps changing and never settles
- Blurred, distorted or ghosted vision that glasses do not fix
- Astigmatism increasing over a short period
- Light sensitivity and haloes around lights at night
- Frequent eye rubbing together with eye allergy
When is it recommended?
Corneal topography (Pentacam or equivalent) is the decisive test, recommended for anyone with the signs above and for anyone considering vision correction. If keratoconus is confirmed and progressing, corneal cross-linking is the first step to stop it. Vision is then improved with rings or specialty lenses; corneal transplantation is considered only in advanced cases.
Options & techniques
- Corneal cross-linking to halt progression
- Natural tissue ring implantation (CTAK) to regularise the cornea and improve vision
- Specialty contact lenses (rigid or scleral) to improve vision
- Lamellar (DALK) or full-thickness (PKP) corneal transplantation for advanced cases
- Stopping eye rubbing and treating allergy
Frequently asked questions
Does keratoconus rule out laser vision correction?
Yes, conventional laser is contraindicated because it thins an already weak cornea. But there are alternatives to improve vision: cross-linking with rings, specialty lenses, and in selected stable cases ICL implantation.
Does keratoconus cause blindness?
Very rarely with modern treatment. Most patients keep good vision through early cross-linking and lenses or rings, and even advanced cases are treated with corneal transplantation.
Book your appointment in Riyadh
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Specialist Hospital – Riyadh · By appointment — call or WhatsApp for the next available slot