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Corneal Specialists in Buffalo, NY
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Understanding the Cornea and its Role in Vision
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outer layer at the front of the eye. It helps focus light, shields the eye from dust and germs, and plays a vital role in your ability to see clearly. Because the cornea is delicate and exposed, even small injuries or changes can lead to vision problems.
Corneal conditions can result from age, injury, infection, genetics, or even long-term contact lens use.
Corneal Conditions We Treat
Buffalo Ophthalmology's fellowship-trained cornea specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of corneal diseases. Some of the most common corneal disorders we treat include:
Keratoconus
A progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision.
Fuchs’ Dystrophy
A genetic condition that causes the cornea to swell and become cloudy due to cell loss.
Corneal Scarring
It can occur after infections, injuries, or past surgeries, and may reduce vision or cause discomfort.
Corneal Dystrophies
A group of inherited disorders that cause cloudiness, deposits, or changes in the cornea’s structure.
Recurrent Corneal Erosion
A condition where the cornea’s surface layer repeatedly breaks down, leading to pain and tearing.
Corneal Infections (Keratitis)
Often caused by bacteria, viruses, or trauma, especially in contact lens users.
Signs You May Need a Cornea Specialist
Many corneal issues worsen over time if not treated early. You may benefit from a corneal evaluation if you’re experiencing:
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Blurred or distorted vision
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Eye pain or discomfort
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Increased light sensitivity
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Difficulty wearing contact lenses
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Sudden or unexplained changes in vision
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Excessive tearing or dry, gritty sensations
Buffalo Ophthalmology's Approach to Corneal Care
No two cases are alike, especially when it comes to corneal diseases. We use high-resolution imaging and advanced diagnostics to examine the surface and structure of your cornea. Once we’ve identified the cause of your symptoms, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan.
Whether you’re managing a chronic disorder like Fuchs’ dystrophy or recovering from an injury or infection, we’ll guide you with clear answers and expert care. Our specialists also work closely with referring optometrists and physicians to ensure coordinated care throughout your treatment.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following:
Non-Surgical Treatment
For minor injuries, abrasions, and infections, corneal conditions may be successfully treated with topical medications and antibiotic eye drops.
Ocular surface conditions like dry eye also affect the cornea. For milder cases, you can treat it in different ways. These include eye drops, artificial tears, Omega-3 supplements, and in-office treatments if needed.
Amniotic Membrane Therapy
If a corneal scratch, ulcer, abscess, or other injury is too severe for topical medication or eye drops, amniotic membranes can be used to promote healing. These are discs of human tissue that are placed over a corneal injury, strengthening the area and acting as a natural bandage or graft. Amniotic membranes are sometimes used when severe dry eye causes damage to the corneal surface.
Corneal Transplant
Keratoplasty, also known as a “corneal transplant” or “corneal graft”, is used to treat dystrophies, keratoconus, degenerative conditions, and severe corneal injuries. We can perform full and partial keratoplasty, depending on the specific case.
Our corneal specialists also perform Descemet’s Stripping with Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK), a new and advanced method of corneal transplant that’s less invasive and results in a smoother corneal surface.
Case-by-Case Treatment
A major advantage of accessing top corneal specialists in the industry is their provision of a wide variety of treatment options for a range of cases. Other treatments we may recommend for corneal conditions include:
- Combined corneal transplant and cataract surgery
- Corneal debridement
- Stromal puncture
- Keratectomy (surgical removal of the affected corneal surface)
Schedule an Evaluation in Buffalo
If you're experiencing changes in vision, discomfort, or have been diagnosed with a corneal condition, early treatment is important. Call us or request an appointment to meet with one of Buffalo’s most trusted corneal specialists.