Keratoconus is a “disease” that affects the cornea or watch crystal of the eye. The cornea is ordinarily, uniformly curved in shape, much like a volleyball. In keratoconus, the shape of the cornea becomes distorted. While the causes of keratoconus are not known, it usually affects both eyes. It typically begins in one's early teens and then slowly progresses until the early 30s.
Treatment
An operation is medically indicated if the cornea becomes too thin; however, this is rare. For most people the decision to have a corneal transplant is dependent upon their level of “ocular” frustration.
If surgery is decided upon, it takes approximately two months to find a compatible donor cornea. After surgery, drops are typically necessary for eight to twelve months. It usually takes that long for full visual potential to be achieved since during that time period the cornea continues to change its curvature while it heals. Transplant recipients may be fit with a contact lens or glasses soon after the operation; however, a “permanent prescription” for glasses or contact lenses will not be given until eight to twelve months after because the constant change in the cornea often results in changing vision.