Corneal Collagen Crosslinking
Corneal ectasia, or bulging of the cornea can lead to problematic eye conditions like keratoconus. Characterized by a cone-shaped cornea, keratoconus occurs from an imbalance of enzymes in the cornea causing it to weaken and protrude. When left untreated, the disorder continues to progress and can cause blurriness, and decrease in vision, as well as light sensitivity, glare, and other vision issues.
At New Eyes, Dr. Ksenia Stafeeva utilizes corneal collagen crosslinking to correct corneal ectasia and keratoconus. A state-of-the-art procedure, corneal collagen crosslinking is designed to strengthen the cornea and inhibit the progression of corneal ectasia conditions like keratoconus. With this advanced technique, Dr. Stafeeva can effectively help you achieve the stabilization of the keratoconus or corneal ectasia.
What Are the Benefits of Corneal Crosslinking?
Various factors, such as genetics, overexposure to UV rays, and excessive eye rubbing may contribute to the development of keratoconus. However, an enzyme imbalance in the cornea is typically what weakens it, ultimately leading to its progressive deformation. Through the strengthening of chemical bonds, corneal collagen crosslinking can effectively prevent further keratoconus or ectasia progression. Corneal collagen crosslinking is designed to be very safe and has been known to reduce the risk of further progression of disease and decrease in vision deterioration. It is important to note that the procedure itself will not improve vision — other means will still be needed to get the best vision, such as glasses or scleral (hard) contact lenses. The procedure may also reduce the need for more extensive treatments like corneal transplants.
What Is the Corneal Crosslinking Procedure Like?
Corneal collagen crosslinking is an outpatient surgery and can generally be performed in about one hour. During the procedure, riboflavin (Vitamin B2) drops will be carefully applied into your eye and allowed to soak in for about 30 minutes. Once the riboflavin has been absorbed by your cornea, a precisely calibrated wavelength of ultraviolet light will be shined into your eye in order to activate the crosslinking process. The corneal collagen crosslinking procedure is typically performed as a solitary treatment; however, it can be performed in combination with other procedures on a case-by-case basis.
What Is Recovery from Corneal Crosslinking Like?
Following your procedure, a bandage contact lens will be applied to your eye and is to be worn for roughly one week. You can expect some pain and irritation for a few days, and your vision may be blurry while your eye is healing. You will need to return to our office for a follow-up visit the day after your procedure, and Dr. Stafeeva suggests that you continue returning for periodical check-ups at one week, one month, three months, and again at six months.
Contact New Eyes
For more information, or to find out if you are a candidate for corneal collagen crosslinking, please contact New Eyes today. Our staff will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you schedule a personal consultation with one of our eye care specialists.