Keratoconus Treatment and Research Center in NYC & Manhattan
The Keratoconus Treatment and Research Center at Pamel Vision & Laser Group is dedicated to providing advanced diagnosis and treatment for patients with keratoconus in New York City and Manhattan. This specialized center combines cutting-edge diagnostic technology, modern treatment options, and extensive clinical experience to help stabilize the condition and improve visual quality for patients at every stage of keratoconus.
Dr. Gregory Pamel was the first physician in New York City to perform corneal collagen crosslinking for keratoconus and post-LASIK ectasia during an FDA clinical trial in 2010. Since that time, he has performed crosslinking procedures on several thousand patients and has developed extensive experience managing keratoconus and other complex corneal disorders. Dr. Pamel has shared his clinical experience with physicians throughout the United States and internationally through educational courses presented at major ophthalmic meetings, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the normally round cornea gradually becomes thinner and bulges into a cone-like shape. This change in corneal structure causes light entering the eye to scatter, leading to distorted vision, glare, and increased light sensitivity. Patients often notice frequent prescription changes, difficulty seeing clearly at night, or blurred vision that is not fully corrected with glasses.
Because keratoconus typically progresses over time, especially in younger patients, early diagnosis and careful monitoring are important. Advanced corneal imaging technology allows specialists to detect subtle structural changes in the cornea even before symptoms become severe. Identifying the condition early provides the opportunity to stabilize the cornea and protect long-term visual function.
Corneal Crosslinking for Keratoconus
Corneal collagen crosslinking is designed to slow or stop the progression of keratoconus by strengthening the structural fibers of the cornea. During the procedure, riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops are applied to the eye and activated with ultraviolet light. This interaction increases collagen fiber cross-linking within the cornea, improving its biomechanical stability.
The primary goal of crosslinking is to prevent further progression of keratoconus. In some patients, the procedure may also lead to modest improvements in corneal shape and vision. However, many individuals still require specialty contact lenses after treatment to achieve their best possible visual clarity.
Vision Rehabilitation with Specialty Contact Lenses
While crosslinking stabilizes the cornea, specialty contact lenses are often necessary to correct the irregular optical surface caused by keratoconus. At the Keratoconus Treatment Center, Dr. Pamel works closely with experienced contact lens specialists who are skilled in fitting advanced lenses for complex corneal conditions.
Topography-Guided PRK for Keratoconus
In selected cases, topography-guided PRK may be used to improve the cornea’s optical quality. Dr. Pamel has collaborated with Dr. John Kanellopoulos, a pioneer in developing topography-guided PRK for keratoconus. This technique uses advanced corneal mapping technology to guide the excimer laser in reshaping irregular areas of the cornea.
Unlike traditional laser vision correction procedures, which are designed primarily to eliminate the need for
glasses or contact lenses, topography-guided PRK for keratoconus focuses on improving the cornea’s optical surface to enhance visual quality. This procedure is performed using the FDA-approved Wavelight topography-guided software and is considered an off-label application for managing keratoconus.
Comprehensive Keratoconus Care in NYC
At the Keratoconus Treatment and Research Center, each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy. The approach may include corneal crosslinking to stabilize the disease, specialty contact lenses to improve visual clarity, or additional procedures to optimize corneal shape.
By combining advanced technology, surgical expertise, and specialized contact lens care, the center aims to provide patients with long-term vision stability and improved quality of life.
To learn more about keratoconus treatment in NYC or to schedule a comprehensive evaluation, contact Pamel Vision & Laser Group at (212) 355-2215.
