Corneal Scarring

A typical, the cornea is clear and transparent, allowing light to pass through it without obstruction and reach the retina. This is important because the cornea plays a crucial role in bending light to focus images accurately on the retina at the back of the eye.

A corneal scar, which manifests as either an opacity or an irregularity in the cornea, can hinder its ability to focus light correctly. Often patients with scarring experience dimmed vision, blurred vision, or as if they are viewing through a cloudy filter.

However, not every corneal scar impact vision. Scars located on the peripheral areas of the cornea might not affect vision at all. In contrast, scars situated in the central part of the cornea, particularly over the pupil, can lead to significant vision loss.

• Improper contact lens wear – The misuse of contact lenses, including improper cleaning, not replacing lenses appropriately, inadequate hand hygiene, and sleeping in lenses.
• Corneal abrasion (scratch) or eye injury – Most of the time, a scratch on the cornea is a minor injury that only damages the outer layer, making it less likely to scar, but serious injuries can scar.
• Keratitis – Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea secondary to a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. This can occur after an eye injury or improper contact lens hygiene.
• Keratoconus– People with this eye disorder have abnormal thinning of the cornea, which causes the front surface of the eye to bulge forward. The bulging of the cornea can result in scarring
• Corneal Dystrophies– These are eye diseases that involve changes in the cornea, and they are often hereditary.
• Ocular Herpes/Zoster –Viral infections can result in sores on the cornea which over time can turn into permanent damage and herpes scarring.
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) – This syndrome causes painful blisters and lesions on the skin and mucous membranes and can lead to serious eye problems, including scarring.
• Severe Dry Eye Disease –  Severe dry eye disease can lead to corneal scarring as the lack of adequate lubrication and moisture on the eye’s surface increases friction and irritation.

A variety of treatment options exist for corneal scars, tailored to their severity and location. For mild peripheral scars, glasses or soft contact lenses might suffice. In cases of mild to severe scarring, specialty contact lenses are often most effective. For specific severe scarring cases, a corneal transplant could be advised. Additionally, laser treatments like phototherapeutic keratectomy are available to eliminate shallow scars, while deeper scars might necessitate corneal transplant surgery.

The treatment plan for a corneal scar is influenced by its size, depth, and location on the eye, but it’s also shaped by the patient’s lifestyle and vision goals. At Charlotte Contact Lens Institute, we conduct thorough examinations for corneal scarring, ensuring ample time for one-on-one discussions with the doctor to address any questions.

Given the range of potential treatments, expertise in scarred corneas is crucial, and our practice is equipped with the technology and experience necessary to achieve the best outcomes for your eyes.

Among the treatment options, RGP (rigid gas permeable) lenses and scleral lenses are two types of specialty contact lenses that can be particularly effective for scarred corneas. Our doctors will carefully review your specific situation, conduct a detailed examination of your eyes, and provide tailored recommendations based on their findings.

We are available for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation, and can be reached at (704) 800-5230 or hello@charlottecontactlens.com.