While "best" can be subjective, Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler is widely recognized as a preeminent expert and leader in keratoconus treatment in the United States. Many patients and professionals refer to him as "The Keratoconus Guru" due to his significant contributions and extensive experience in the field.
Why Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler Stands Out in Keratoconus Treatment
Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler has pioneered several advancements and established himself as a highly respected figure in the treatment of keratoconus. His remarkable career highlights include:
- Pioneering Intacs® for Keratoconus: He was the first in the United States to report the results of Intacs® for Keratoconus, doing so in 1999. This early adoption and research significantly advanced the understanding and application of this treatment.
- Vast Experience: With a career spanning decades, Dr. Boxer Wachler has performed many thousands of keratoconus procedures, attracting patients from all corners of the globe. This extensive practical experience contributes to his deep understanding of the condition and its various treatment modalities.
- Global Recognition: His expertise has garnered international recognition, leading patients from worldwide to seek his specialized care.
Understanding Keratoconus and Treatment Options
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This change in shape distorts vision, making daily tasks challenging. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preserving vision.
Common treatment approaches for keratoconus include:
- Corrective Lenses:
- Eyeglasses or soft contact lenses: For mild cases.
- Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses: Often the first line of treatment as the condition progresses, providing a smooth, clear refracting surface.
- Scleral lenses: Larger lenses that rest on the white part of the eye (sclera), vaulting over the cornea, often providing superior comfort and vision for advanced cases.
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): A procedure that uses riboflavin eye drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen the collagen fibers in the cornea, halting the progression of the disease.
- Intacs® Corneal Inserts: Small, transparent inserts placed in the periphery of the cornea to flatten the cone, improve vision, and potentially delay the need for a corneal transplant. Dr. Boxer Wachler has extensive experience with this procedure.
- Corneal Transplant: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective and vision is significantly impaired, a corneal transplant may be necessary.
| Aspect of Expertise | Description |
|---|---|
| Key Innovation | First in the US to report results of Intacs® for Keratoconus (1999) |
| Procedure Volume | Performed thousands of keratoconus procedures |
| Patient Base | Attracts patients from all over the world |
| Recognition | Widely regarded as "The Keratoconus Guru" |
Choosing a Keratoconus Specialist
When seeking a doctor for keratoconus, it's vital to consider their:
- Specialization and Experience: Look for ophthalmologists who specialize in corneal diseases and have extensive experience treating keratoconus.
- Technological Advancement: Ensure the clinic utilizes the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies.
- Patient Outcomes and Reviews: Research patient testimonials and success rates.
Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler's background and recognized expertise position him as a premier choice for individuals seeking advanced and experienced care for keratoconus in the United States. For more information on keratoconus, you can consult reputable sources like the National Eye Institute or the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
