Posted by: Carolina Cataract & Laser in News

Carolina Cataract & Laser Center is proud to announce that David Vroman, M.D., is the first physician in South Carolina to offer Epioxa™ HD / Epioxa™, an FDA-approved, next-generation corneal cross-linking treatment for keratoconus. The treatment is now available at the practice’s Ladson location, making Carolina Cataract & Laser Center among the first in the United States to bring this advanced therapy to patients.

Dr. Vroman, alongside his partners Kristiana Neff, M.D., Michelle Ying, M.D., and Charlene Grice, M.D., will offer this latest treatment option, expanding access to advanced corneal care for patients across the region.

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This change can lead to blurred or distorted vision that worsens over time.

The condition often begins in adolescence and progresses through early adulthood. While it may not always be widely recognized, keratoconus can have a significant impact on vision and quality of life. If left untreated, some patients may eventually require a corneal transplant.

A new approach to treatment

Traditionally, keratoconus has been managed with glasses or contact lenses to improve vision. However, newer treatments like corneal cross-linking are designed to address the underlying cause of the condition by strengthening the cornea and slowing or stopping its progression.

Epioxa represents a meaningful advancement in this approach.

Unlike earlier cross-linking procedures, Epioxa uses an “epi-on” technique, which keeps the cornea’s outer layer intact during treatment. This allows for:

  • Improved patient comfort
  • Reduced disruption to the eye’s surface
  • Faster recovery time
  • A streamlined treatment experience

Why Epioxa stands out

Epioxa is the first and only FDA-approved epithelium-on, oxygen-enriched corneal cross-linking therapy for keratoconus. It is designed to deliver treatment through the cornea’s surface without removing its protective outer layer.

Clinical studies have shown that Epioxa can help stabilize the cornea and halt progression of the disease, with particularly strong results seen in younger patients.

Bringing advanced care to South Carolina

A fellowship-trained cornea, cataract and refractive surgeon, Dr. Vroman brings extensive experience in advanced surgical techniques and a longstanding commitment to delivering innovative, patient-centered care. Through his work at Carolina Cataract & Laser Center, he continues to expand access to leading-edge vision treatments, ensuring patients in the Charleston area can receive high-quality care close to home.

Carolina Cataract & Laser Center remains dedicated to offering the latest advancements in vision care and helping patients maintain long-term eye health and quality of life.

Learn more

Learn more about keratoconus or schedule a consultation with the Carolina Cataract & Laser Center team.