Vision Therapy in Ocala

The Power of Scleral Lenses and Corneal Crosslinking

(352) 512-0560

Advanced Keratoconus Treatment

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that can significantly impact your vision over time. If you've been diagnosed with this condition, you may have concerns about the future of your eyesight. Fortunately, a groundbreaking treatment combination can help — corneal crosslinking and scleral lenses.

woman adding contact


close-up of contact in eye

Understanding Keratoconus: Symptoms and Causes

Keratoconus is a unique and challenging eye disorder. It's characterized by the thinning and bulging of the cornea, the eye's clear front surface. This corneal distortion causes vision problems, including blurry and distorted vision, increased light sensitivity, and difficulty wearing soft contact lenses or glasses. Over time, the progression of keratoconus can lead to severe vision impairment.


The Power of Corneal Crosslinking and Scleral Lenses

Corneal crosslinking is a minimally invasive procedure that can strengthen the cornea and halt the progression of keratoconus. Riboflavin eye drops are carefully applied to the cornea's surface, followed by controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. This combination of riboflavin and UV light strengthens the bonds between collagen fibers , which add strength and stability to the cornea.

In combination with corneal crosslinking, scleral lenses play a crucial role in improving vision for keratoconus patients. Scleral lenses are larger, specialized contact lenses that vault over the cornea, creating a smooth, moist reservoir of tears between the lens and the eye's surface. This provides clear vision and enhances comfort, making them an excellent option for individuals with keratoconus.

Corneal crosslinking and scleral lenses offer several advantages. Among others, this combination:

  • Improves Vision

    Many patients experience improved vision after undergoing corneal crosslinking and using scleral lenses. The strengthening of the cornea combined with the customized fit of scleral lenses can lead to clearer and more stable eyesight. As a result, you may rely less on glasses or traditional contact lenses.

  • Is Minimally Invasive

    The procedure itself is minimally invasive, typically performed in an outpatient setting. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the process, and the recovery time is relatively short, allowing you to return to your daily activities promptly.

  • Shows Long-Lasting Results

    The strengthening effect on the cornea can provide long-term benefits. By preserving your corneal integrity and utilizing scleral lenses, this combination can help maintain your vision for years, reducing the risk of further vision loss.

Patient Reviews
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- Jul. 31, 2024
First time visit having neglected my annual exam for lots of years. The office was clean and organiz... ed. Very professional staff and Christine was very patient with my ultra sensitivity to putting things in my eyes. OK, maybe a phobia. Scheduled appointment on-line and arrived a bit early for the new patient paperwork which was all electronic tablet. Nice. The only glitch I noticed was their website which would not allow uploading a scan of my insurance card. Dr C was easy to understand and exuded confidence. I trust this office to take care of my baby blues.
- Jul. 29, 2024
Very quick, efficient, and relatively affordable
- Jul. 09, 2024
I’m a new patient. Professional, clean and no wait time. Super friendly staff. Highly recommend.
- May. 18, 2024
I have been a patient for many years. Dr.Shaw has helped me retain what vision I have left. He is t... horoughly in depth and knowledgeable in his treatment and diagnosis of my condition. He and his staff in the back where eye exams take place are very kind and understanding Kudos to Samantha and Regina job well done and the young man who helped me in front office (Darius?)
- May. 16, 2024
After shopping around they're the only one who took time to explain to me what my insurance was abou... t I got my glasses👍
- May. 15, 2024
Top notch service and employee retention knowledge! Willing too go a little extra to keep customers ... happy!
- May. 14, 2024
There are some lovely people working here. All very courteous and professional. The place looked cle... an and orderly. They also have public Wi-Fi for guests.
- May. 03, 2024
Made an appointment for eye exam. First time there. The staff was helpful friendly and help Pick out... my frames. Awesome experience. I will come back
- Mar. 09, 2024
Very professional and friendly staff that makes you feel like can trust them with the health of your... eyes. Choosing a doctor to take care of your vision requires an extra layer of trust since you'll be putting the health of one the most important parts of your body in their hands. They explain every exam and are detail oriented with the procedures.
- Mar. 07, 2024
I am so thankful I found this office. I had to have cataract surgery and Dr Castello was so reassuri... ng and put me at great ease for my up coming surgery. The front staff is so friendly as well as their technicians. I would give them 10 stars if I could. I look forward after my second eye is done to get a new prescription for glasses.
- Mar. 05, 2024
Overall, it was very pleasant. For someone who has struggled with my eyesight almost since birth, g... oing to the eye Dr is always a very nerve-wracking experience. The treatment began as soon as I virtually booked my appointment. Jess was amazing at contacting me prior to my appointment to gather additional information. As well as suggesting I apply for vision insurance ( they do not get paid to promote this). I applied, and I saved upward of 400 dollars during my visit. From the welcome desk to the tech, to the Dr and the sales representatives on the floor, I felt like everyone had a collective passion and urge to help in any way possible. There was a bit of confusion navigating the permissions of my newly acquired vision insurance, but Courtney went above and beyond. She ensured that I left not only a happy customer but also in great spirits regarding the entire visit. I will absolutely be continuing my care here and will recommend that if you're in Ocala, this is the place to go!
- Feb. 13, 2024
I went there for an Eye exam yesterday. It was the most thorough and enjoyable eye exam I have ever ... had. The staff is friendly and caring. I really feel like they care.
- Nov. 13, 2023
I can’t say enough amazing things about this office! I had my appointment today and my toddler had... to come with me - they were so patient and understanding with us. All the staff are AMAZING! Dr. Michelle Cevallos is FANTASTIC!
- Nov. 10, 2023
Nice place good service
- Sep. 21, 2023
Best and most thorough eye exam I've ever had! Been wearing glasses or contacts for close to 40 yea... rs and never before have I experienced the level of professionalism and over the top patient care as I have at Eye Care Center of Ocala. From the moment I called and spoke with Sitara to schedule an exam, Bailey the wonderful receptionist to the pre-exam with Herb and the exam itself with Dr Cevallos to having Penny assist me with picking out frames, everything and I do mean everything, was above and beyond what I've experienced in the past. The office is gorgeous, state of the art, the selection of frames extensive and everyone working there very nice and patient oriented. Cannot express just how satisfied and impressed I am with every aspect of Eye Care Center of Ocala. Will definitely be recommending them to anyone who needs eye care!
- Sep. 19, 2023
A wonderful center full of caring smart people! I'm glad we found them! I SEE their efforts and am ... thankful!
- Jul. 21, 2023
Truly a remarkable experience! After moving, we were uncertain we would be able to find an eye care ... center that could possibly meet our expectations set from our previous office. We have been fully delighted. Every staff member we have had the privilege of meeting has been intentional and kind. The doctor is extremely attentive and thorough. I must say, they have gone above and beyond in each interaction! I sincerely recommend them highly!
- Jul. 17, 2023
Nice clean facility that runs in an organized fashion. Bailey was my initial contact and who helped ... me with my appointment and insurance, my tech was Jay, my doctor was Dr. Costello, Herb recorded notes during my visit and Kerri J. helped me with frame selection. All were super nice, friendly and professional. No pressure as it pertains to having certain tests or purchasing glasses and frame selections are reasonably priced.
- Apr. 12, 2023
Called for an appt as a new patient, got one the next day. Bright and beautiful office, great locati... on, excellent and efficient staff, and the doctor explained my test results and was great. No hard sell for glasses or contacts, which I really appreciated. Overall, an excellent experience and my new eye doctor in Ocala.
- Mar. 28, 2023
WOW all I can say is wow! I just moved to the area literally days ago, had an eye emergency, and the... y were the only place that would take me today last minute. Every moment from talking on the phone to stepping in the building was professional, nice, fast/efficient, and clean! Dr. McCabe was very nice and knowledgeable and the assistant before her was thorough and professional. I’m so excited that I found this place because I will definitely be back! Excited that I’ve found my new eye doctor for the years to come now living here! Thank you!

View All 937 Reviews

Scleral Lenses in Ocala

Our optometry practice in Ocala

Photograph of Lauren  Wasikowski
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross

woman in examination

Who Can Benefit from Corneal Crosslinking and Scleral Lenses?

Corneal crosslinking and scleral lenses are recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with keratoconus and have shown proven progression of their condition. We understand the unique challenges of keratoconus and are dedicated to helping you preserve your eye health and vision.

If you've been diagnosed with keratoconus or suspect you may have it, our team at Eye Care Center of Ocala specializes in this innovative treatment combination and is committed to providing you with the best possible care. We understand the unique challenges of keratoconus and are dedicated to helping you preserve your eye health and vision.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how the combination of corneal crosslinking and scleral lenses can strengthen your vision, halt the progression of keratoconus, and preserve your eye health for years.

(352) 512-0560