Keratoconus is a progressive condition affecting the cornea, the clear domed surface of your eyes. The tissue thins and bulges out into a cone shape, causing blurred and distorted vision as well as light sensitivity.
Glasses and contacts aren’t always up to the task of restoring vision issues caused by keratoconus, and the condition gets worse over time without treatment.
Ophthalmologist Dr. Randa Garrana, one of the leading practitioners in her field, offers corneal cross-linking (CXL) at Advanced Lasik in Long Beach and Duarte, California, and Midtown East, New York. Here’s what you should know about this innovative treatment.
The heart of the CXL procedure is strengthening the structure of corneal tissue to prevent further progression of keratoconus and the vision deterioration that accompanies it. The treatment creates new collagen bonds, reinforcing the biomechanical strength of the cornea.
The photochemical process starts with riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2. Dr. Garrana applies it to the cornea, and activates it with ultraviolet-A (UVA) light. This boosts the chemical connections between collagen fibers, preventing any further changes in shape to the cornea.
While CXL stops further advance of keratoconus symptoms, it won’t correct changes that have already occurred, making early detection and treatment key to the best possible outcome.
An outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia, CXL starts with removal of the epithelium, the thin surface layer of the cornea, allowing deep penetration of the riboflavin solution, as well as permitting more UVA light through to activate the drops.
You won’t feel anything during the procedure, but some discomfort and light sensitivity is common immediately after your surgery. It’s normal for your vision to blur and fluctuate in the early stages of recovery.
Corneal strengthening and vision stabilization takes some time. It’s important to follow your post-procedure instructions and attend your follow-up visits with Dr. Garrana.
CXL may be right for you if you’re diagnosed with progressive keratoconus, which Dr. Garrana can confirm with corneal mapping, a comprehensive eye exam, and other tests. She also considers your age, corneal thickness, general eye health, and the stage of your keratoconus.
CXL isn’t necessary for every keratoconus patient, but it can be an important step for those with progressive symptoms. You may still require corrective lenses after surgery, since CXL doesn’t correct existing corneal changes.
Ready to find out more about CXL for keratoconus? Schedule a consultation at Advanced Lasik today: You can reach our Long Beach, California, office by calling 310-956-4564 or by clicking on the Request Appointment link.
