Cornea Surgery
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision by helping to focus light onto the retina. Damage to the cornea can cause a range of vision problems, from mild blurriness to complete loss of vision.
What Causes Cornea Damage?
There are many different factors that can cause damage to the cornea, including:
- Trauma to the eye
- Infections, such as keratitis
- Corneal dystrophies (a group of inherited conditions that cause abnormal deposits of protein in the cornea)
- Keratoconus (a progressive condition in which the cornea becomes thinner and weaker, causing it to bulge outwards in a cone shape)
- Fuchs’ dystrophy (a condition that affects the innermost layer of cells in the cornea, leading to vision problems such as blurred vision, glare, and halos around lights)
Treatment Options for Cornea Damage
The specific treatment options for cornea repair will depend on the underlying cause of the damage, as well as the severity of the condition. Here are some of the most common treatment options for cornea repair:
- Corneal Transplantation. Corneal transplantation, also known as a corneal graft, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with healthy corneal tissue from a donor. This procedure can help to restore vision and improve the health of the eye.
- Corneal Cross-Linking. Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat progressive keratoconus, a condition in which the cornea becomes weak and bulges outwards. During the procedure, a special solution is applied to the cornea, which is then activated with ultraviolet light to strengthen the cornea and slow or stop the progression of the condition.
- Intacs are small, thin plastic rings that are placed in the cornea to help correct vision problems caused by keratoconus. The rings help to reshape the cornea, improving vision and reducing the need for contact lenses or glasses.
- Phototherapeutic Keratectomy. Phototherapeutic keratectomy is a laser procedure that is used to treat a range of corneal conditions, including scars and opacities. During the procedure, a laser is used to remove damaged or diseased tissue from the cornea, allowing healthy tissue to grow in its place.
Cornea Repair at Petelin Vision
If you are experiencing any symptoms of cornea damage, such as blurred vision, pain, or sensitivity to light, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor right away. Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and prevent further damage. Dr. Petelin is trained in the latest techniques for cornea surgery, and we use state-of-the-art technology to provide the best possible care for our patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.