Ectasia is a potential complication of conventional and wavefront Lasik, All-Laser Lasik, LASEK, PRK, and RK refractive surgery techniques, or any surgery that removes corneal tissue.

Ectasia occurs when the cornea becomes weak and gradually bulges outward. The forward movement changes the cornea’s refractive power producing greater myopia, possibly producing astigmatism, and often providing blurriness of vision.

Glasses or contact lenses may correct the refractive error, however contact lens fitting of a patient with ectasia requires much care and frequent check-ups until the ectasia stabilizes.

In most cases, the cornea will stabilize after a few months without ever causing severe vision problems. Only a small percentage of patients with ectasia may become intolerant to contact lenses, or find that ectasia caused significant loss of vision. In this situation, a corneal transplant is an option that can result in improved vision. A corneal transplant is highly successful but requires a long healing period.  After three years 90%-95% people with advanced keratoconus have success with corneal transplant.

Related subjects are regression and keratoconus.

If you have ectasia that is problematic and would like further evaluation and possible resolution treatment from a Second Response Team doctor who is experienced in treating ectasia, please feel free to request a doctor referral.

Revised: Thursday, June 28, 2007