---
title: What is corneal topography?
description: "[Corneal topography](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-corneal-topography/) is a non-contact test that maps the curvature and shape of the corneal surface. It is used in refractive surgery assessment, keratoconus diagnosis and contact lens fitting. ## Patterns and uses Placido-disc or Scheimpflug-based systems generate colour-coded maps…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/diagnostics-testing/what-is-corneal-topography/"
updated: "2026-01-11"
category: "Diagnostics & Testing"
---

# What is corneal topography?

[Corneal topography](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-corneal-topography/) is a non-contact test that maps the curvature and shape of the corneal surface. It is used in refractive surgery assessment, keratoconus diagnosis and contact lens fitting.

## Patterns and uses

Placido-disc or Scheimpflug-based systems generate colour-coded maps showing steep and flat areas, along with indices of irregularity. Characteristic asymmetric or inferior steepening patterns can reveal early ectatic disease.

- Essential in screening for keratoconus before laser eye surgery
- Helps guide selection of toric intraocular lenses
- Allows monitoring of corneal stability over time
- Assists in designing customised contact lenses for irregular corneas