Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D.
Keratoconus Specialist · Illinois College of Optometry · Last reviewed March 2026
You Are Not Alone
Keratoconus affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people (new studies suggest it may be as common as 1 in 400). It can be isolating to see the world differently from everyone else, but with the right management, you can live a completely normal life.
Practical Tips for Daily Life
- Hydration: Drink more water. It helps tear production, which makes contact lens wear more comfortable.
- Sunglasses: UV protection is crucial, but also helps with the light sensitivity (photophobia) characteristic of KC.
- The "rubbing" Rule: Never, ever rub your eyes. Use artificial tears (preservative-free) if they itch. Rubbing is the enemy.
Navigating Insurance
Many patients are denied coverage initially because insurance companies classify contact lenses as "cosmetic."
The Loophole: You need a provider who bills them as "Medically Necessary Contact Lenses". Because glasses cannot correct your vision to a functional level, these lenses are not cosmetic—they are a prosthetic necessity. Our office specializes in these types of prior authorizations to maximize your benefits.
About the Author
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a specialist in complex contact lens fitting for keratoconus. With over 20 years of experience, he is a trusted referral source for CHOC and UCI Medical Center.
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