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Cornea
What is the cornea?
The cornea is the clear dome that covers the front of the eye. The cornea and tear film work together to direct light rays onto the retina, allowing you to see clearly. Conditions that affect the cornea include keratoconus, corneal scars, corneal infections, Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy, corneal swelling, pterygium, dry eye conditions, corneal stem cell dysfunction and others.

How can you tell if you have a corneal condition or disorder?
A careful exam with a specialist is the only way to determine the true underlying cause.
Signs you may have a corneal disorder
Many of the signs of corneal disorders can overlap with other ocular conditions.
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Foreign body sensation
- Light sensitivity
- Pain

What causes a corneal disorder?
Corneal disorders can result from:
- Heredity
- Trauma
- Infection
- Chronic inflammation
- Medication toxicity
- Dryness
- Sun damage
- Eyelid problems
- Tumor
- Contact lens wear
- Ocular surgery
- Aging
Your options
Treatment
Horizon corneal specialists have over ten years of experience with DSEK partial thickness corneal transplant surgery, and were the first in the greater Charlotte area to perform DMEK surgery, the latest surgical advance for Fuchs' corneal dystrophy. Treatment options include:
- Medication
- Lubrication
- Bandage or specialized contact lens
- Minor surgical office procedure
- Laser surgical procedure
- Corneal cross-linking
- Corneal transplant
Medications
Many medications have side effects, but some of the medications used to treat corneal conditions include:
- Lubricants
- Antibiotics
- Antivirals
- Antifungals
- Allergy medications
- Steroids
- Biologic anti-inflammatory medications
- Chemotherapeutic agents
Trust Horizon Eye Care specialists
At Horizon Eye Care, our well-trained and highly experienced corneal specialists provide advanced medical and surgical management of all conditions and disorders of the cornea. Our doctors take great pride in connecting with their patients, and providing competent and compassionate care.
View Videos About The Cornea and Surgical Options
Make an appointment
We are eager to meet with you, examine your eyes, utilize our specialized cornea testing equipment to aid our diagnosis, discuss in detail your disease and its prognosis, and establish the best course of action needed to improve your vision and relieve your discomfort.
Schedule an exam at Horizon Eye Care to determine your best corneal treatment. Online, use Horizon Eye Care’s Patient Portal. Or call 704-365-0555 during regular business hours (Monday – Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.).
Doctors
Joseph M. Biber, MD | Jonathan S. Minkowski, MD |
Gerald B. Rosen, MD |
CALL 704-365-0555
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.