What is Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Corneal cross-linking (corneal collagen cross-linking) is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to strengthen the cornea. It’s FDA-approved to treat keratoconus (when the cornea thins and bulges into a cone and creates blurry vision). It can also be used to treat other corneal ectasias.
With this innovative procedure, collagen molecules in the cornea are able to form new bonds and create a stronger structure to prevent thinning of the cornea in the future. As any form of corneal ectasia is progressive and gets worse over time, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible.
How Does Cross-Linking Work
The corneal cross-linking procedure works by combining riboflavin eye drops (vitamin B) and ultraviolet light to create new collagen bonds in the cornea. This makes the cornea more stable and improves its overall structure. The riboflavin works as a photosensitizer to help absorb the UV light, producing a photochemical reaction, and that reaction is what creates the collagen fiber bonds.
Corneal Cross-Linking Surgery for Keratoconus
Cross-linking surgery is FDA-approved to treat keratoconus. It can prevent your vision from getting worse, and sometimes can improve your vision. By applying vitamin B to the cornea and administering the UV light, new collagen bonds are formed to strengthen the cornea, addressing the thinning and bulging that comes with the condition.
KNOW YOUR DOCTOR
Dr. Archana Gupta
Cataract Surgeon, Ophthalmologist, Cornea & External Diseases Specialist
Dr. Archana Gupta is a board certified ophthalmologist. She specializes in cataract, cornea, external diseases and refractive surgery.
What are the Benefits of Cross-Linking
There are many benefits you can look forward to with corneal cross-linking, including the following:
- Slow down keratoconus: One of the main benefits of corneal cross-linking is that it slows down the progression of keratoconus, ensuring your vision doesn’t get worse and you don’t need more invasive treatment down the line.
- Improved vision: While not always the case, some patients also see an improvement in their vision after corneal cross-linking and keratoconus treatment.
- Minimally invasive: You never have to worry about an invasive surgery with corneal collagen cross-linking. It’s a minimally-invasive procedure that doesn’t take more than an hour.
- Prevent corneal transplant surgery: By stopping the progression of keratoconus and other similar diseases, we can help you prevent the need for corneal transplant surgery.
The Corneal Cross-Linking Procedure
The cross-linking procedure is relatively straightforward. We’ll start by administering numbing eye drops to ensure you’re comfortable. Your surgeon will then remove the thin outer layer of the cornea. Vitamin B eye drops are then applied to the cornea and allowed to sit for 30 minutes. A device is then used to shine UV light at the cornea for 30 minutes. A bandage contact lens is then placed over the eye to help the cornea heal. You will be able to go home the same day as the procedure.
Recovery from Cross-Linking Surgery
After your corneal cross-linking surgery, you’ll want to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, getting water in your eye, using eye makeup, or doing heavy exercise. You will also be given eye drops to apply to help along the healing process.
Your vision will likely be blurry at first, but will gradually improve over the next 2-3 weeks. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Additionally, because the procedure can affect your vision, you may need to receive a new prescription for your glasses or contact lenses.
Why Choose Advanced Eye Surgeons
When you choose Advanced Eye Surgeon for your cross-linking surgery, you are choosing the very best. Our women-owned practice is led by Dr. Gupta, who has years of experience helping patients achieve optimal eye health. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive eye exam, a cross-linking procedure, or a more complex surgery, our team will ensure you receive the compassionate care you deserve.
Corneal Cross-Linking FAQs
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Is corneal cross-linking covered by insurance?
Schedule a Consultation
Struggling with a thinning or bulging cornea? Corneal cross-linking may be the perfect solution. To learn more, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our team today. Call our office or message us via our online contact form.
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