Keratoconus in Vienna – Modern Diagnostics & Therapy at EyeLaser

The most precise method for early diagnosis of keratoconus is 3D corneal tomography SCHWIND MS-39. This procedure analyzes not only the front and back surfaces of the cornea, but also its thickness and the epithelial structure. This allows for a detailed three-dimensional representation to reliably detect even subtle changes that are often overlooked by conventional methods.

Crosslinking (CXL) is only absolutely necessary if there is a proven progression of the disease and the progression needs to be stopped. In cases where the keratoconus is already considered stable, optical correction using special contact lenses (such as rigid gas permeable or scleral lenses) can often sufficiently improve visual quality. The decision always depends on an individual ophthalmological examination and the course of the disease.

The procedure itself is completely painless thanks to local anesthesia. However, in the first 1 to 3 days after crosslinking, a slight burning sensation or an uncomfortable foreign body sensation may occur in the eye. These typical postoperative symptoms are usually well manageable with the prescribed eye drops and painkillers and subside quickly.

Yes, at EyeLaser Vienna we can also treat corneas that are considered relatively thin thanks to specially developed and safe protocols. Special, adapted procedures ensure that the minimum residual corneal thickness is not undercut during the procedure, which enables safe application down to approx. 250 µm. This allows the treatment of patients in whom conventional CXL methods would be contraindicated.

Both combined procedures are used before the actual crosslinking to smooth the corneal surface and improve visual quality. PTK (Phototherapeutic keratectomy) is particularly suitable for treating irregular epithelium or superficial corneal scars. PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy), on the other hand, is preferably used for irregular corneal shapes in order to specifically model the surface and thus prepare a better visual result.

Ring segments (ICRS or CAIRS) are an option when the irregular bulging of the cornea is so severe that optical correction with contact lenses no longer leads to satisfactory visual acuity. By inserting these micro-invasive plastic segments into the cornea, its shape and topography can be specifically changed. This leads to a flattening of the bulge, an improved visual quality and a possible better compatibility of contact lenses.

The effect of crosslinking is considered permanent and aims at lifelong stabilization. Long-term studies prove that in over 95% of cases a long-term stop of the progression of keratoconus is achieved. After successful treatment, no further stabilization procedures are usually necessary.

No, LASIK treatment is strictly contraindicated in diagnosed keratoconus, as it would permanently weaken the cornea. This could dramatically accelerate the progression of the disease and lead to significant vision loss. Instead, surface ablation procedures, often in combination with crosslinking (such as PRK + CXL), are safe and established alternatives for the treatment of keratoconus.

Yes, the costs for crosslinking are often covered by the social security providers (health insurance companies) in Austria if there is proven progression of keratoconus. The prerequisite for this is usually a corresponding medical documentation of the progression. Our clinic actively supports you in creating the necessary findings and submitting the application for reimbursement to your health insurance company.

No, complete blindness does not occur due to keratoconus. However, without any treatment, vision can decrease sharply and irreversibly, which severely impairs the quality of life. Thanks to modern therapy options such as crosslinking and corneal transplantation, the vision of those affected remains preserved and stabilized in the long term in most cases.