DSAEK Corneal Transplant
Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK)—a proven corneal transplant technique offering excellent outcomes for endothelial disease.
Keratoconus
A progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing distorted vision that cannot be fully corrected with glasses.
Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a condition in which the normally dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and bulges outward into a cone shape. This irregular shape causes light to focus incorrectly, resulting in distorted and blurred vision.
The condition typically begins during teenage years or early twenties and may progress for 10-20 years before stabilising. Both eyes are usually affected, though often to different degrees.
In early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may adequately correct vision. As the condition progresses, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses or specialised scleral lenses are often needed to provide clear vision by creating a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea.
For advanced keratoconus, or when contact lenses are no longer tolerated, surgical options include corneal collagen cross-linking to halt progression, intracorneal ring segments, or corneal transplantation.
Signs You May Notice
If you're experiencing any of these signs, a consultation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
- Distorted, blurry vision that glasses don't fully correct
Straight lines may appear wavy or bent
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
Bright environments become uncomfortable
- Frequent prescription changes
Glasses need updating more often than usual
- Ghosting or multiple images
Seeing shadows around objects
- Difficulty driving at night
Due to halos and starbursts around lights
Causes
- Weakening of corneal collagen fibres
- Genetic factors—may run in families
- Chronic eye rubbing
- Associated conditions like hay fever, eczema, and asthma
Risk Factors
- Family history of keratoconus
- Chronic eye rubbing
- Allergic conditions (hay fever, eczema, asthma)
- Down syndrome and other connective tissue disorders
When to Seek Help
Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following:
- Your vision is worsening despite new glasses
- Your optician has mentioned irregular astigmatism or corneal thinning
- You are struggling to wear contact lenses comfortably
- You have a family history of keratoconus
Frequently Asked Questions
Keratoconus cannot currently be cured, but it can be effectively managed. Collagen cross-linking can halt progression in many cases. Contact lenses provide excellent vision for most patients, and corneal transplantation can restore vision in advanced cases.
Keratoconus very rarely causes complete blindness. With appropriate management—contact lenses and, if necessary, surgery—the vast majority of patients maintain good functional vision throughout their lives.
Standard LASIK and PRK are not suitable for keratoconus as they involve thinning the cornea, which could worsen the condition. However, other treatments are available. Ms. Menassa can discuss the options appropriate for your situation.
How We Can Help
Ms. Menassa offers the following treatments for Keratoconus:
Concerned About Your Eyes?
Ms. Menassa provides thorough, unhurried consultations to assess your condition and discuss the best treatment options for your situation.
Specialist Expertise
As a fellowship-trained Cornea and Anterior Segment specialist, Ms. Menassa has particular expertise in conditions affecting the front of the eye. Her training in Heidelberg and Lucerne ensures you receive care informed by the latest international advances.
Available Treatments
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DMEK Corneal Transplant
Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK)—the most advanced corneal transplant technique for endothelial cell disease, offering faster recovery and superior visual outcomes.
Take the First Step
Understanding your condition is the first step toward clear vision. Ms. Menassa is here to provide expert guidance, honest advice, and compassionate care.