During the crosslinking procedure, drops of riboflavin, a B vitamin, are placed on the surface of the eye. Next, ultraviolet A (UV-A) radiation is applied to the cornea. The combination of riboflavin and UV-A triggers a chemical reaction that strengthens the corneal tissues, slowing its deformation and stabilizing its shape.

The surgery typically lasts about 30 minutes and is generally painless. After the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort in the eye, such as a gritty sensation or itching, which usually subsides within a few hours.

Benefits of Crosslinking:

The main benefit is that it can halt the progression of keratoconus and prevent vision loss. In some cases, it may even improve vision that has already been lost.

Additionally, this procedure can reduce the need for rigid contact lenses to correct vision in individuals with keratoconus. In some instances, it may also open the door to refractive surgery options like LASIK or PRK, which were not feasible before crosslinking.

Who may be a good candidate for this procedure?

Crosslinking is an effective treatment option for individuals with progressive keratoconus, especially young patients with significant remaining corneal tissue. The surgery is not recommended for those with advanced keratoconus or scarring on the cornea.