I went to an eye doctor recently to see about having lasik surgery. The doctor told me that I didn't qualify for the surgery because of a condition he diagnosed me with having. He said its called Keratoconus. This is where the shape of your eye (cornea) changes from a semi-circular shape to a cone shape. I asked how this happens, he said that generally it comes from wearing soft contact lenses which allow for more movement and reshaping. He said I should have worn a gas permeable lens which would have restricted movement. Anyway, I sought a second opinion, and was given the same diagnosis. Unfortunately, in addition to the diagnosis, the only treatment suggested for me was a corneal transplant. I am so Confused! These are the only eyes I have! I dont want to risk losing my vision in hopes that the cornea of a deceased person will restore it. Is there anyone out there familiar with this procedure, and can offer the benefit of their own experience?

Soft contacts don't cause keratoconus, but they aren't much good at helping you see if you do have keratoconus. In keratoconus, your cornea is irregularly shaped, so glasses and soft contacts do a poor job of providing clear vision. Someone should try to fit you in rigid contact lenses. With a rigid lens, the front of the lens essentially becomes the front of your eye, and since the rigid lens is not irregular, it provides fairly clear vision. Over time, your cornea may scar if the keratoconus progresses. The scarring is what would necessitate the corneal transplant. However, you may never need a transplant. Good luck.

I've had 9 cornea transplants of the left eye due to a virus I got in my cornea 30 years ago.I wouldn't have a left eye at all if it were'nt for the wonderful people who donate. Ask me any questions you want.