Corneal and External Diseases

As one of only a few sites across the nation to offer corneal cross-linking, we’re bringing the latest advancements in corneal and external disease therapies to patients in West Virginia communities and beyond.

We offer advanced vision technology and targeted treatments for patients with corneal and external conditions.

The WVU Eye Institute provides both medical and surgical treatment of disorders that affect the cornea and other external structures of the eye. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped structure that transmits and focuses light into the eye and serves an important protective function. When the cornea is misshapen or scarred, vision can be compromised.

Corneal Cross-Linking

The WVU Eye Institute is among only a few institutes in the country to provide patients with corneal cross-linking for keratoconus and post-refractive surgery ectasia, conditions that cause the cornea to become thinner, bulge out, and cause blurred vision.

By applying special vitamin B2 eye drops and ultraviolet light, this outpatient procedure can help stiffen the cornea, limit progression of keratoconus, and reduce the need for corneal transplantation in the future.

Corneal cross-linking usually only needs to be performed once to achieve desired results. Talk with a WVU Eye Institute cornea specialist to see if you’re a candidate for corneal cross-linking.

Other Conditions We Treat

Cornea specialists at the WVU Eye Institute offer the latest diagnosis and treatment methods for a wide range of cornea conditions, including:

  • Complex and mature cataracts
  • Cornea inflammation or infection
  • Corneal dystrophies and degenerations
  • Corneal ulcers
  • Dislocated lenses
  • Dry eyes
  • Keratoconus
  • Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
  • Pink eye

Treatments and Services

WVU Eye Institute specialists will perform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate your individual cornea condition and perform any necessary tests using advanced vision technology. Based on your diagnosis, a cornea specialist may recommend a variety of treatment methods, including:

  • Cornea transplantation
  • Cataract surgery for high-risk patients
  • Laser vision correction
  • Lens implants
  • Trauma reconstruction
Thomas Mauger, MD

Thomas Mauger, MD

Jane McDermott Shott Chair for Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Professor
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Morgantown, WV
Lena Chen, MD

Lena Chen, MD

Assistant Professor
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Morgantown, WV
Evan Frigoletto, MD

Evan Frigoletto, MD

Chief Resident
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Morgantown, WV
Lingo Lai, MD

Lingo Lai, MD

Assistant Professor, Cornea Fellowship Program Director, Associate Residency Program Director
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Morgantown, WV

Locations

WVU Eye Institute Main Campus
Morgantown

WVU Eye Institute Main Campus