At Northwest Eye Surgeons, our corneal specialists combine advanced expertise and specialized training with compassionate care to diagnose and treat conditions affecting this vital part of your visual system.
What Is the Cornea?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye that acts as a protective window, providing about two-thirds of your eye’s focusing power by bending light rays as they enter. A healthy, clear cornea allows light to pass through easily so it can reach the retina at the back of the eye.
Although highly sensitive, the cornea contains no blood vessels and instead receives nutrients from tears and fluid within the eye. Because of this, it heals differently from other tissues and requires special care when injured or diseased.
Corneal damage can occur at any age from infection, injury, contact lens complications, genetic conditions like keratoconus, and certain systemic diseases. When the cornea becomes cloudy, scarred, or irregularly shaped, it can prevent light from entering properly, leading to blurred or distorted vision, discomfort, and light sensitivity.
Common Corneal Conditions
Keratoconus – Progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, causing distorted vision and light sensitivity. Managed with specialty lenses or surgery in advanced cases.
Pterygium – A benign, wedge-shaped growth often related to UV exposure. Large growths may require removal if vision is affected.
Corneal Ulcer – An open sore on the cornea, typically from infection or severe dry eye, requiring urgent treatment to prevent vision loss.
Corneal Abrasion – A scratch on the cornea’s surface, usually healing quickly but requiring care to prevent infection.
Corneal Foreign Body – Embedded particles in the cornea causing pain and tearing, requiring professional removal.
Recurrent Erosion Syndrome – Repeated breakdown of the cornea’s outer layer, causing pain upon waking and requiring treatment to promote healing.
Dry Eye Syndrome – Insufficient tear production or rapid evaporation leading to irritation and increased risk of corneal damage.
Fuchs’ Dystrophy – A degenerative disease affecting the inner layer of the cornea, leading to swelling, clouding, and vision loss.
Anterior Basement Membrane Dystrophy (ABMD) – A condition where the cornea’s surface layer develops irregularly, often causing recurrent erosions and visual disturbances.
How We Treat Corneal Conditions
At Northwest Eye Surgeons, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments tailored to your needs:
Non-Surgical Treatments
Prescription eye drops for infections or inflammation
Artificial tears and lubricating ointments
Specialty contact lenses for keratoconus
Bandage contact lenses for protection during healing
Minor Surgical Procedures
Corneal debridement to remove damaged tissue and promote healing
Punctal plugs to retain tears
Amniotic membrane transplantation to accelerate healing
Advanced Surgical Treatments
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK): Uses a precise laser to remove scars and smooth the corneal surface, improving comfort and vision.
Superficial Keratectomy: Manually removes damaged outer layers to treat recurrent erosion, dystrophies, and superficial scarring.
Partial Thickness Corneal Transplant: Replaces only the damaged layers, allowing faster recovery and reducing the risk of rejection.
Full Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty): For severely damaged corneas, replacing the entire cornea with healthy donor tissue.
Specialized Keratoconus Treatments
For keratoconus, we offer advanced treatments to preserve vision:
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL/KXL): Strengthens the cornea using riboflavin and UV light to slow progression and may prevent the need for transplant.
INTACS® Inserts: Small plastic arcs inserted into the cornea to reshape it and improve vision, especially when glasses or contacts no longer help.
Partial Thickness Transplants (DALK): For advanced keratoconus requiring surgical intervention.
Schedule Your Corneal Consultation Today
At Northwest Eye Surgeons, our experienced corneal specialists are dedicated to restoring and protecting your vision with personalized care using the latest technology. If you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with a corneal condition, we are here to help.
Take the first step toward clearer, healthier vision.
Schedule your corneal consultation at Northwest Eye Surgeons in Seattle, WA, today.
Reach out to our friendly team at Northwest Eye Surgeons. Whether you’re scheduling a refractive procedure or a routine eye care appointment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
