Keratoconus is a disease of unkown origin in which the cornea becomes progressive thin and more distorted (ectasia).  The change in the cornea causes a decrease in vision which can be mild to severe.  As the cornea thins it usually causes nearsightedness and astigmatism.  The astigmatism can progress to such a state that glasses can no longer correct the problem.

Usually rigid contact lenses such as hard or gas permable are used to improve vision.  In many patients this is all that is needed.

If contact lenses can no longer be worn or if they no longer correct the problem then corneal transplantation can be considered.

Another option is to consider Intacs for Keratoconus [http://www.intacsforkeratonconus.com]

Intacs are an FDA approved appliance to improve vision in patients with keratoconus.

Intacs are clear thin inserts made from medical grade plastic that are inserted in the periphery of the cornea.  The cornea then resumes more of its normal shape and archietecture.  Vision will usually improve with the more normally shaped cornea.  The goal of surgery is to offer a procedure that is safer than corneal transplant and enable a person to see with glasses or soft contact lenses.  It’s possible that vision can be good
without glasses or contacts after surgery but not likely.  It has been my experience that vision can be quite good after Intacs with soft toric contact lenses or glasses.