If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus, you might be worried about how it will affect your vision in the long term. Fortunately, an innovative corneal cross-linking treatment available at Richens Eye Center offers new hope. This unique approach has transformed how we manage keratoconus, offering a way to slow or halt its progression from within our offices in St. George, UT, and Mesquite, NV.
Understanding Corneal Cross-Linking
Corneal cross-linking combines ultraviolet (UVA) light and riboflavin eye drops to strengthen the cornea, the dome-shaped surface covering the front of your eye. Healthy corneas are crucial for focusing light and maintaining clear vision.
But when you have keratoconus, your corneas grow thinner and weaker, causing your eyes to form a cone shape. This distorts vision and can be very frustrating to live with. Corneal cross-linking helps prevent further corneal weakening and helps halt the progression of keratoconus.
The Corneal Cross-Linking Process
You receive numbing eye drops and a mild sedative for the procedure. Then, your surgeon carefully removes the outermost layer of the cornea, the epithelium. This allows the riboflavin to reach your cornea effectively. Then, your surgeon exposes your eye to a carefully controlled amount of UVA light.
The light activates the riboflavin and triggers the growth of new connections between the collagen fibers in the eye. The new bonds strengthen and stiffen the cornea, stopping its outward growth.
After the procedure, you’ll wear a “bandage” contact lens to protect your cornea as it heals. Your surgeon might also prescribe special eye drops.
Is Corneal Cross-Linking Right for You?
To qualify for corneal cross-linking, you must be at least 14 years old and have either progressive keratoconus or a condition called corneal ectasia (a similar condition that sometimes happens after refractive surgery). Our experienced eye surgeons evaluate your situation and help you determine the best way to preserve your vision with keratoconus.
Corneal Cross-Linking in St. George, UT
We understand how scary it can be to watch your vision deteriorate with keratoconus. Our caring team is here to help you explore all your options in our St. George, UT, and Mesquite, NV, offices. Call us at 435-986-2020 or request an appointment online today. We’re ready to help you stabilize your vision now.
