Keratoconus
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
A diagnosis of “keratoconus” is a moment when uncertainty and fear about the future arise. We understand this. That is why at Swisslaser we offer you more than just treatment—we offer a clear, predictable action plan and care at the highest, world-class level that will restore your sense of security and control.
International treatment and a predictable plan for the future
Your Perspective: How to regain control and peace of mind
We understand that a keratoconus diagnosis is not only a medical problem, but above all uncertainty. “Will I be able to drive?” “Is my job at risk?” Our first goal is to give you a clear, understandable plan. Step by step, we will guide you through the entire process, from precise diagnosis, through effective disease stabilization, to vision rehabilitation. The goal is to restore not only your vision, but above all your sense of security and control over your own life.
What is keratoconus? Understanding the problem
It is important to be aware that after the age of 35, our vision, regardless of previously diagnosed defects, begins to deteriorate. Presbyopia is most often diagnosed after the age of 40, with its greatest intensity occurring between the ages of 40 and 55.
Around the age of 60 (some believe between 65 and 70), this process comes to a halt.
Our Authority: International standards and experience at the source
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
Experience at the Source: Dr. Victor Derhartunian has been performing Crosslinking procedures since 2007, and learned the method in Zurich directly from its inventor, Prof. Theo Seiler.
Treatment of Complex Cases: Safe treatment of thin corneas (sub400 protocol) and procedure planning based on Total Corneal Wavefront technology are routine for us.
Active Participation in Knowledge Development: Dr. Derhartunian regularly participates in the world’s most important ophthalmology congresses (including ESCRS, AAO). This ensures that our patients are treated according to the most current medical knowledge and global best practice standards.
Our Care Model
Access to the best technologies, wherever they are
We believe that our patients deserve access to the absolute best and safest technologies in the world. That is why our care model is flexible and always follows the highest standard.
- In Poland we perform stabilizing procedures such as Crosslinking and Crosslinking with laser with the highest precision.
- For the most advanced reconstructive procedures, such as CAIRS, which require access to certified, international tissue banks, we refer our patients to specialized centers with which we collaborate, such as our center in Vienna.
This is our guarantee that you always receive treatment without any compromise in quality and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
about Allotex TransForm™ treatment
Czy stożek rogówki oznacza, że czeka mnie przeszczep?
Absolutely not. Nowadays, thanks to early diagnosis and methods such as Crosslinking and CAIRS, our main goal is precisely to avoid transplantation. The chances of preserving your own cornea are very high.
Jak wygląda typowa ścieżka leczenia dla nowo zdiagnozowanego pacjenta?
As our “Roadmap” shows, for most patients with early or moderate keratoconus, the entire treatment (Crosslinking or CXL with laser) takes place in Poland. More complex, multi-stage plans are reserved for advanced cases.
Czy od stożka rogówki można oślepnąć?
With access to modern treatment, the risk of complete vision loss is negligible. However, untreated, advanced keratoconus can lead to significant vision impairment.
Jakie są pierwsze objawy stożka rogówki?
The most common symptoms are rapidly progressive myopia and astigmatism, blurred vision, double vision (especially when looking with one eye), and halo effects around light sources.
Czy pocieranie oczu jest szkodliwe?
Yes. In individuals with genetic predispositions, chronic eye rubbing can significantly accelerate disease progression. Avoiding eye rubbing is a key recommendation.
Czy zabieg Crosslinking jest refundowany przez NFZ?
Yes, this is a reimbursed service. However, under the NFZ, waiting times may be long, and access to the latest technologies and combined treatment (e.g., CXL + laser) is limited.
Jaka jest cena leczenia stożka rogówki?
The cost depends on the individual treatment plan. During the consultation, you will receive a detailed and transparent cost estimate. We offer convenient installment payment systems (e.g., 0% installments).
Stożek rogówki a praca przy komputerze – czy to bezpieczne?
Yes, computer work does not worsen the condition of the cornea. Our goal is to improve vision quality so that it becomes fully comfortable again.
Czy po leczeniu będę musiał nosić okulary lub soczewki?
The goal of treatment is to halt the disease and improve vision quality, which often allows for discontinuing rigid contact lenses in favor of comfortable glasses or soft contact lenses. Complete elimination of refractive error is possible, but it is not the primary goal.
Czy stożek rogówki jest przeciwwskazaniem do zwykłej laserowej korekcji wzroku?
Yes, absolutely. Classic laser vision correction (LASIK, FemtoLASIK) is contraindicated. Only special, therapeutic laser procedures (Trans-PRK/PTK) are used.
Czy stożek rogówki jest dziedziczny?
Yes, the disease has a genetic basis. If it occurs in close family members, regular check-ups (corneal mapping) are recommended.
Jakie są alternatywy dla leczenia chirurgicznego?
In many cases, rigid, gas-permeable contact lenses are an excellent method of vision correction. Surgical treatment is necessary to halt disease progression (Crosslinking) or is an option for individuals who do not tolerate rigid lenses.
Mieszkam daleko od Warszawy/Krakowa. Jak wygląda organizacja leczenia?
We regularly see patients from all over Poland. Our team will help you plan visits to be as minimally disruptive as possible. Many follow-up appointments can be coordinated in cooperation with your local ophthalmologist.
Czym jest Crosslinking (CXL)?
It is a procedure involving saturating the cornea with vitamin B2, followed by irradiation with UVA rays, which leads to its strengthening and stiffening.
Dlaczego warto wybrać leczenie w Swisslaser?
Because we offer a unique combination of international experience at the highest, Swiss level with local care in Poland. We provide access to technologies (CAIRS, Total Corneal Wavefront) that are rare in the country, and care from one of the most experienced surgeons in this field in Europe.
Regain control over the future of your vision
The first step is always precise diagnosis and the creation of an individual action plan. We invite you to a consultation, during which we will answer all your questions.