Dr. Richens attended Stanford University and the University of Utah School of Medicine. She is also trained in ophthalmology and corneal care and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She proudly offers corneal cross-linking to preserve your vision and the structure of your eye.
How Corneal Cross-Linking Works
Corneal cross-linking is a non-surgical procedure that strengthens your cornea. It’s especially useful for treating keratoconus, where the cornea starts to thin and bulge outward. This condition can distort your vision and make glasses or contact lenses less effective.
Corneal cross-linking works by applying special eye drops (riboflavin) to the surface of your eye, followed by exposure to a controlled amount of ultraviolet (UV) light.
The riboflavin soaks into the corneal tissue, where it becomes activated by the UV light. This activation triggers a chemical reaction that helps collagen fibers in the cornea bond more tightly together. The result is a stronger, more stable cornea that’s better able to hold its shape. It should also slow or stop the cornea from becoming thinner.
Who Should Consider This Treatment?
Corneal cross-linking is typically recommended for people diagnosed with keratoconus or other forms of corneal thinning. If you’re experiencing frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription, increasing astigmatism, or blurry vision that isn’t corrected well with lenses, this treatment might be right for you.
The goal is to stop the progression of the disease, not to reverse changes that have already occurred. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment matter. If you’re unsure whether this applies to you, a consultation with our specialists can help clarify your options.
Talk to a Specialist Near You
Corneal cross-linking is an important tool for protecting your vision long-term. To learn more, schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations:
St. George/Downtown, UT: 435-986-2020
St. George/Sunset, UT: 435-628-1112
Mesquite, NV: 702-346-2950
St. George/Little Valley, UT: 435-900-3937
