Questions and Answers About Keratoconus
Brian S. Boxer Wachler, MD

1. What are Intacs^®?
   Intacs^® are tiny curved plastic segments that are placed in the outer part of the cornea under the surface to change the shape of the cornea.
   
   
   
2. Are they permanent?
   Intacs^® are designed to remain within the cornea, but there is always the option to remove them. That is, if an Intacs^® patient needs a transplant, the Intacs^® will simply be removed prior to the procedure.
   
   
3. How do Intacs^® help with keratoconus?
   A specialized Intacs^® technique has been developed that can decrease the corneal steepening in keratoconus. This can lead to improved natural vision as well as improved vision with glasses and contact lenses.
   
   
   
4. How long does the procedure take?
   The 10 minute procedure is performed as an outpatient minor office procedure.
   
   
5. Is the procedure painful?
   The procedure is performed with topical numbing drops. No shots or needles are used during the procedure. You will notice a slight pressure sensation from the eyelid holder.
   
   
6. What if I blink?
   During the procedure, a tiny eyelid holder is used to keep your eye open so you do not have to worry about blinking

Keratoconus is the thinning and bulging of the cornea. Treatments include Intacs®, Holcomb C3-R®, collagen cross linking, and if keratoconus symptoms progress to a serious level, corneal transplantation. Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler is a keratoconus expert and can help you understand keratoconus causes as well as offer evaluation and treatment.