Struggling with blurred or changing vision?
Our specialists can help diagnose and manage keratoconus with advanced, proven treatments. Book a consultation to explore your options.
Advanced
Treatment for Keratoconus
Restore corneal stability and improve vision with advanced laser-assisted and biologic treatments, including CAIRS and corneal cross-linking, performed by our experienced surgeons at Sandhurst Eye Centre.
What is keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, becomes thinner and gradually bulges into a cone shape.
This irregular shape distorts vision, causing blurriness, light sensitivity, and frequent changes in glasses prescriptions. In advanced cases, the cornea may scar or swell, making it difficult to see clearly even with corrective lenses.
When to consider treatment for keratoconus?
You may need a keratoconus treatment if you experience:
- Blurred or distorted vision that worsens over time
- Increased sensitivity to light or glare
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night or while driving
- Vision that no longer improves with glasses or contact lenses
- Signs of corneal thinning or irregular curvature detected by your eye specialist
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential. Procedures such as corneal cross-linking (CXL) or CAIRS can help stabilise keratoconus, prevent further progression, and improve your visual quality.
Keratoconus treatments
Treatment options for keratoconus depend on the stage and severity of the condition. Our specialists use advanced techniques to strengthen, reshape, or replace the cornea, helping restore clearer and more stable vision.
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Standard corneal cross-linking is an epi-off treatment that strengthens and stabilizes the cornea using riboflavin and UV light to halt keratoconus progression. Epithelial-on accelerated cross-linking offers a faster, more comfortable, surface-preserving option that is particularly suitable for children, while PACE customized cross-linking uses targeted, mixed epi-on/epi-off energy delivery to both stop progression and improve corneal regularity and vision quality.
Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy (tPRK) with Cross-Linking
A “no-touch” laser treatment that gently reshapes the cornea while strengthening it through cross-linking. Ideal for patients intolerant to contact lenses and may delay or prevent the need for corneal transplant.
CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments)
Uses donor corneal tissue and femtosecond laser precision to reshape and stabilise the cornea, improving vision and reducing irregular curvature in moderate to advanced keratoconus cases.
Corneal Tissue Addition Keratoplasty (CTAK)
A minimally invasive procedure that uses donor corneal tissue segments to reinforce and reshape the weakened cornea in keratoconus. By adding tissue rather than removing it, CTAK can improve corneal stability and vision, and may delay or reduce the need for corneal transplantation.
Corneal Transplant (DALK or PK)
For severe keratoconus where scarring or thinning is advanced, a partial or full-thickness corneal transplant replaces damaged tissue with healthy donor cornea to restore clear vision.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Custom-designed lenses, such as scleral or hybrid types, provide a smooth optical surface for the irregular cornea, offering clear vision and improved comfort.
Our approach to treating keratoconus at Sandhurst Eye Centre
We combine advanced technology with personalised care to help patients manage keratoconus effectively.
Comprehensive corneal assessment using advanced imaging and diagnostic tools
Precision-guided laser and biologic treatments for customised vision correction
Ongoing care and follow-up for long-term visual stability
What to expect on your keratoconus treatment journey?
Here’s what the keratoconus treatment process typically looks like. We’ll walk you through each stage of your treatment so you know exactly what to expect, with personalised care and support before, during, and after your procedure.
Initial Consultation
Your ophthalmologist will perform detailed corneal imaging and vision tests to assess the severity of keratoconus and determine the most suitable treatment option for your needs.
Day of Treatment
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may involve corneal cross-linking, CAIRS, or other stabilising procedures. These are usually performed under topical anaesthetic, with minimal discomfort and same-day discharge.
Aftercare and Recovery
You’ll receive tailored aftercare instructions, including eye drops and activity guidance. Regular follow-up visits help ensure the cornea heals well, stabilises properly, and that your vision continues to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most keratoconus treatments, such as corneal cross-linking or CAIRS, are performed under topical anaesthetic drops. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, though mild irritation or light sensitivity may occur afterward and typically resolves within days.
Recovery typically takes a few months. Initial healing may take several weeks, but full visual recovery can take 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of transplant and the healing process.
Treatment aims to stabilise the cornea and prevent further vision loss. Some patients may still need glasses or specialised contact lenses for best vision correction, but the prescription often becomes more stable and easier to manage after treatment.
Why choose us
Highly experienced surgeons
Over 20 years of expertise in cataract, refractive laser, oculoplastic, corneal transplant and retinal surgeries.
State-of-the-art technology
Modern diagnostic & surgical equipment for precise treatment.
Accredited and trusted care
Our centre meets the highest medical standards, backed by industry accreditations and a reputation for excellence in ophthalmic care.
Holistic eye care under one roof
From diagnostics to surgery and post-operative care, we offer a full range of services to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
What our patients say
"Excellent and friendly staff aiming to make their patients feel comfortable and welcome. There was an atmosphere of tranquility and peace throughout my stay. I highly recommend the Sandhurst Eye Clinic and special thanks goes out to Dr. Lamprecht for his excellence."
"Wow, Dr Van Onselen is such an amazing Dr, he took all the efforts to ensure that my Dad gains back his sight. I am very happy, the staff is so friendly. I recommend this institution as the most wonderful one ever!!!"
"From the warm welcome at reception to the professional care throughout my cataract surgery, every step was exceptional. My doctor even called to check on me after the procedure—such a thoughtful touch. I highly recommend Sandhurst Eye Centre to anyone in need of eye care."
"In a word, Excellent! Lovely people, thorough, great explanation of my condition and treatment path, and seamlessly managed reimbursement requirements. A pleasure going there!"
"Thorough examinations, clear explanations, exceptional care. The clinic's efficient operations and welcoming atmosphere further enhance the overall experience. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking top-notch eye care in South Africa."