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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What is the treatment for keratoconus?

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  • Dom Willson

    Optometrist

    Dom Willson is the founder and co-owner of Custom Eyecare, established in 1999. Dom Willson has over 25 years experience as an optometrist. He has … View Profile

    There is no 100% cure for keratoconus but there are things that can be done to reduce symptoms and slow progression. 

    One general rule that applies to all keratoconus patients is to avoid eye rubbing. Using eye drops such as artificial tears (lubricants) or antihistamine eye drops can help if itchy eyes are a problem. 

    If the keratoconus is progressing, corneal cross linking is a procedure that can help to stabilise vision by strengthening the corneal structure. While this is not a ‘cure’, it is a treatment that can certainly help. Another surgical procedures is Intacs but there are doubts about its benefits and cost-effectiveness.

    Besides the wearing of rigid (RGP) contact lenses, the only other treatment for keratoconus is a corneal graft (transplant), and this is usually only performed when all other treatments have been attempted unsuccessfully.

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