Corneal Cross Linking

CORNEAL COLLAGEN CROSS-LINKING

Corneal collagen cross-linking is a procedure to slow or halt the progression of Keratoconus by strengthening the cornea. The treatment is a combination of riboflavin (vitamin B12) and ultraviolet light that adds bonds and makes cross-links between the cornea’s collagen fibers stronger.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that develops when the cornea of your eye thins and begins to bulge into a cone shape. A normal, curved cornea helps deflect light away from your light sensitive cornea, so when it changes shape, light is reflected directly to your retina, causing distorted vision, blurred vision, nearsightedness, and light sensitivity.

As a first-line treatment, the cross-linking aims to reduce and stop Keratoconus in the early phase of the condition and treat the progressive vision loss that occurs, leading to corneal transplantation. Corneal cross-linking may prevent the need for corneal transplantation, which is a relatively major surgery.

With today’s improved technology, the vast majority of people suffering from Keratoconus may safely undergo cross-linking. Consult an ophthalmologist at BC LASIK who will look at your unique medical and vision profile to determine if you are a candidate for corneal cross-linking, or if another procedure may be more effective for you.

Call our office to schedule an appointment with our Optometrist to discuss further details.