Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder in which the cornea, normally dome-shaped, thins and gradually bulges outward into a cone shape. This structural change distorts the light entering the eye, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
At Global Eye Clinic Mumbai, a JCI-accredited and NABH-accredited eye hospital, Dr. Hardik Parikh, one of the top eye surgeons in Mumbai, specializes in advanced treatments for keratoconus, including corneal collagen crosslinking and other surgical interventions.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus occurs when the cornea’s structure weakens and thins over time, resulting in a cone-like shape. This disrupts the normal passage of light through the eye, leading to visual distortions and reduced clarity.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus is still unknown. However, certain factors contribute to its development:

- Oxidative stress and inflammation: A reduction in protective antioxidants in the cornea leads to subclinical inflammation and weakening of corneal tissue.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history of keratoconus significantly increases the risk.
- Excessive eye rubbing: Persistent and vigorous eye rubbing can weaken the cornea.
- Associated medical conditions: Allergies, Down syndrome, connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan’s syndrome), and conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- Poorly fitted contact lenses: Prolonged use of ill-fitting contact lenses can contribute to corneal damage.
Risk Factors to Look Out For
- Genetic factors: If a close relative has keratoconus, regular eye check-ups are crucial.
- Age of onset: Typically begins during adolescence or early adulthood, though it can start earlier or later.
- Progression variability: Keratoconus can progress rapidly or stabilize unpredictably.
- Bilateral involvement: Both eyes are usually affected, though to varying degrees.
Signs and Symptoms of Keratoconus
- Blurred vision: Nearsightedness or distorted vision due to irregular corneal shape.
- Astigmatism: Irregular astigmatism causing ghosting or multiple images.
- Sensitivity to light: Bright lights, including sunlight or fluorescent lights, may cause discomfort.
- Halos and ghosting: Bright lights may appear surrounded by halos or objects may appear duplicated.
- Eye strain: Headaches or discomfort after prolonged visual tasks such as reading.
Diagnosis of Keratoconus
At Global Eye Clinic Mumbai, advanced diagnostic tools and methods are employed to confirm keratoconus:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination: Includes the use of the Snellen chart to test visual acuity.
- Corneal Topography: A non-invasive Ai based scan to test keratoconus that maps the corneal curvature, identifying abnormalities in its shape.
- Retinoscopy: A light beam is used to detect high corneal irregularities.
- Corneal Pachymetry: Measures the thickness of the cornea to detect thinning.
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
The treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of the condition. At Global Eye Clinic Mumbai, a range of options is available:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Eyeglasses or Soft Contact Lenses: For mild cases, glasses or soft contact lenses can improve vision.
- Custom Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These lenses provide better vision correction for more advanced keratoconus.
- Scleral Lenses: Specialized lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera for improved comfort and vision.
Surgical Treatments
Corneal Collagen Crosslinking (CXL):
- This FDA-approved procedure strengthens the corneal structure by using riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops activated by UV light. It is highly effective in halting the progression of keratoconus.
- Patients typically notice improvement starting from the third month, with optimal results seen within a year.
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK):
- Recommended for patients with mild corneal scarring, this laser-based procedure smooths out irregularities.
Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty):
- For severe cases with significant scarring, the damaged cornea is replaced with a donor cornea. The surgery may involve either full-thickness (penetrating keratoplasty) or partial-thickness (lamellar keratoplasty) transplantation.
Why Choose Global Eye Clinic Mumbai for Keratoconus Treatment?
- JCI and NABH Accreditation : Ensures adherence to the highest international and national standards in patient care and safety.
- Expertise of Dr. Hardik Parikh : Renowned for his expertise in corneal surgeries, including advanced treatments for keratoconus.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and surgical equipment.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Comprehensive care tailored to individual needs, ensuring optimal outcomes.
If you or a loved one experience symptoms of keratoconus, early detection and treatment are crucial to preserving vision. Book an appointment today with Dr. Hardik Parikh at Global Eye Clinic Mumbai, your trusted partner in eye care. +919500895970