Common conditions

Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea thins and becomes unstable, often resulting in an irregular corneal shape, meaning light rays do not pass cleanly through the eye. In most cases, this is a slowly progressive condition, although it does require long-term monitoring.

There is a wide spectrum within this condition, with some patients being very mildly affected and usually just require visual correction with spectacles or specialist contact lenses. In more advanced forms, corneal transplantation is required to regain vision.

Fuch’s endothelial dystrophy is a genetic condition that results in a decreased number of the special cells on the underside of the cornea that are responsible for keeping it crystal clear. This makes the vision blurry, and the gold standard treatment for this is usually a corneal transplant. Modern corneal transplantation can often utilise extremely thin corneal material to treat this condition by replacing the diseased cell layer. Please see the section on corneal transplantation for more information.

Corneal scarring makes the surface of the eye irregular, meaning light rays cannot pass effectively into the eye. Small scars often do not cause significant visual problems and can heal naturally over time. However, some scars can result in the loss of vision, and there are opportunities to treat this with either laser treatment, or in more advanced cases corneal transplantation. This is something that can be discussed in depth at your appointment.

Recurrent corneal erosion syndrome causes significant pain and can become a major burden on the quality of life of some patients. This is usually caused by the outermost layer of the surface of the eye becoming poorly attached to the layer below, meaning this layer can become slippy and break down easily. This can cause significant pain and discomfort in some patients.

Many cases can be treated medically with drops. Some patients require more advanced treatments in the form of phototherapeutic laser treatment. This helps to reshape the surface of the eye and can help make this adhere better to layer below. A series of diagnostic tests need to be taken to determine if you are suitable for this treatment.

This is a small benign growth that begins on the white of the eye (conjunctiva) and can grow across the surface of the cornea, with the ability to cause scarring. Not only can this cause an irritable eye, but in some cases, it can affect vision. These can be removed safely with surgery under local anaesthetic, and further treatments can be used to remove any residual scarring.

Dry eyes are a common condition, and in many cases can cause irritable symptoms that can affect someone’s quality of life. There is a wide spectrum of this condition, and in many cases symptoms can be significantly improved by a range of effective treatments. With a thorough consultation and assessment, a treatment plan can be tailored towards your needs.