Surface Irregularities
Surface irregularities in terms of your eye refer to imperfections affecting the front surface of the cornea, a fine, protective layer, called the epithelium. These irregularities can include conditions such as epithelial erosion, corneal scars, or dystrophies, and band keratopathy which can distort vision and cause visual disturbances.
Disruption to the corneal epithelium, can be caused by several different issues such as injuries, infections, or underlying conditions.
Treatments can be carried out by our consultants either manually or with one of our lasers. The aim is to promote healing and restore the integrity and regularity of the corneal surface.
Correcting these surface irregularities is essential for optimal vision quality and overall eye health. By addressing these imperfections, individuals can enjoy clear, comfortable vision, and enhance the long-term health and function of their eyes.
FAQ
Which corneal conditions can be treated?
There are numerous corneal conditions, which include:
- Corneal scars
- Epithelial erosion
- Band keratopathy
Our range of specialised treatments offer our patients personalised care, tailored to their specific issues.
What are the symptoms of corneal irregularities?
Symptoms of corneal irregularities may manifest as:
- Soreness and discomfort in the eyes
- Gritty sensation or feeling of foreign body presence
- Clouding or haziness on the front surface of the cornea
- Scarring that may be visible or cause vision disturbance
These symptoms can significantly impact vision quality, leading to blurred vision, visual distortions, and difficulty focusing. As a result of these corneal irregularities, individuals may also experience increased sensitivity to light, eye fatigue, and dryness in the eyes.
Who is prone to surface irregularities?
Surface irregularities can affect individuals of all ages, making it a condition not limited by age. Whether you are a young adult or a senior, anyone can experience this range of issues. This highlights the importance of understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options available to address this common issue.
What does treatment involve?
Re-surfacing treatments can either be performed manually or by using a laser to precisely remove the affected area of the cornea.
Manual re-surfacing techniques may involve the careful removal of the cornea’s, epithelial layer.
Laser-based treatments utilise cutting-edge technology to achieve targeted and efficient removal of corneal irregularities.
Our corneal specialist will advice which type of procedure will best treat your condition.
These are both outpatient procedures, performed with numbing eye drops, and take around 15 minutes. Following treatment, patients return home to relax, as the eye will be uncomfortable for 36-48 hours and normal day to day activities can resume several day later.
What is the aftercare and recovery for surface irregularities?
Once treated, a bandaged contact lens is applied to the front of the eye to assist with comfort and healing. The bandage helps to protect the healing cornea from external irritants, reduces discomfort by acting as a barrier between the eye and the eyelid, to promote faster healing.
Here are some other tips the surgeon may advise to ensure optimal recovery:
- Wear protective eyewear as recommended to shield the eyes during the healing process
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed to aid in healing and prevent infection
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes to prevent unnecessary irritation
- Stay away from any dirty or dusty environments until the surface of the cornea has healed.
Contact Vision Care Clinic
Struggling corneal irregularities? Schedule your comprehensive consultation at Vision Care Clinic in Bristol with our leading local ophthalmologists. Call our friendly team on 0117 905 7722 today.