What is Corneal Crosslinking?

Corneal cross-linking is a procedure used to strengthen corneas. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses ultraviolet (UV) light and eye drops to strengthen the collagen in the cornea. This procedure is used to treat patients who have a corneal condition called keratoconus, a condition that leads to thin and weak corneas. Currently, corneal cross-linking is the only proven effective surgical treatment for patients who suffer from keratoconus.

While corneal cross-linking has been practiced outside the United States for more than a decade, the procedure was approved for use within the United States in recent years. Whitsett Vision Group is proud to be one of the few providers in the country offering this innovative and life-changing procedure.

What Technology Is Used At Whitsett Vision Group?

At Whitsett Vision Group, we use iLink cross-linking technology, the only FDA-approved technology to slow or halt the progression of Keratoconus. 

 

iLink Corneal Cross Linking

The iLink Procedure is performed with the KXL UVA irradiation machine and Photrexa drops. Photrexa eye drops are applied to the cornea, and then the KXL machine is used to administer ultraviolet (UV) light, which helps to stiffen and strengthen corneas weakened by keratoconus.

What to Expect

  • You will be awake during the procedure. The procedure itself typically lasts about an hour.
  • You will be given a mild oral sedative to help you feel relaxed, and numbing drops will be applied to your eyes.
  • Your doctor will apply riboflavin eye drops to your eye, and then shine a specific type of UV light onto your cornea. This will be repeated several times in order to strength the collagen fibers in your eye.
  • After the procedure, you may experience increased sensitivity to light, and/or some mild discomfort that could be described as a gritty or burning sensation. This generally improves within a few hours.