Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking

Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) is a surgical procedure that is used to stabilize and prevent further progression of keratoconus and keratoectasia (keratoconus that can develop following laser eye surgery). CXL is new to the United States, but has been around since 1997 when it was first developed in Germany. CXL has not yet gained FDA approval in the United States, but is the surgical standard of care for keratoconus in the rest of the world. While CXL is not designed to be a refractive procedure or give our patients independence from optical correction, studies have shown that the procedure can mildly improve vision. The ultimate goal of CXL is to eliminate or delay the need for a corneal transplant.
While there are various methods to perform corneal cross-linking, MHEI uses what is called accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking. Studies have shown this particular method to be just as effective as the traditional method, but with more comfort and less risk to the patient. Recovery from the surgery is 48-72 hours with the option of getting a new glasses or contact lens prescription from your doctor 3-4 weeks after the procedure. We are very excited to offer this promising and exciting technology to our keratoconus patients.