Corneal CrosslinkingRaleigh & Oxford, NC

Corneal crosslinking (CXL) is an innovative treatment for keratoconus and other eye conditions involving cone-shaped corneas. It combines ultraviolet (UV) light with vitamin B/riboflavin eye drops to strengthen the collagen fibers within the corneas. Our team of expert ophthalmologists are proud to offer this cutting-edge solution for patients.

New Century Ophthalmology – Leaders in Customized, Cutting-Edge Eye Care

Based in Oxford and Raleigh, NC, New Century Ophthalmology offers a restorative, personalized treatment journey in a technologically advanced practice setting. Our experienced ophthalmologists work tirelessly to bring you today’s most innovative eye care solutions, including corneal crosslinking for vision enhancement. Your treatment takes place at our state-of-the-art, accredited facility, where concierge service and outstanding results are the norm rather than the exception. Contact us today and learn more about corneal crosslinking by scheduling a private consultation with our friendly, knowledgeable team.

What Is Corneal Crosslinking?

By crosslinking collagen fibers, this powerful treatment can strengthen the cornea, preserving and restoring vision in those with keratoconus and post-LASIK/PRK ectasia. During treatment, UV light and riboflavin eye drops are combined, halting the progression of eye disease and enhancing quality of life for patients. Corneal crosslinking has been performed safely since 1998.

What Are the Benefits of Corneal Crosslinking?

Corneal crosslinking comes with a wealth of proven benefits, including the following:

Increases the diameter of collagen fibers in the corneas
Anchors the corneas in a better position
Bolsters sturdiness in the corneas
Improves corneal roundness
Halts the progression of keratoconus
Can even reverse corneal problems in some cases
Improves peace of mind and well-being

Who Is a Good Candidate?

With keratoconus, the normally round cornea thins and transforms into a cone shape. When light enters the eye, it does so at a bent angle, distorting and blurring a clear image. Keratoconus can affect one or both eyes and may begin early in life, as young as one’s teens.

Corneal crosslinking is best for those whose corneas have changed shape but not to a significant or severe degree. Patients with keratoconus without major vision loss make the best candidates for the procedure. If performed early and correctly, CXL can improve vision, prevent further corneal deterioration, and allow patients to wear contacts with minimal discomfort.

Our team will conduct a thorough consultation process at our world-class facilities in Oxford and Raleigh to ensure that corneal crosslinking is the safest and most effective procedure for restoring your vision, confidence, and quality of life. Contact us today to get started with your initial visit.

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Corneal Crosslinking Procedure Details

The CXL treatment process involves two components. During the first part of the procedure, Dr. Vinod Jindal or Dr. Sumeet Jindal will remove the corneal epithelial layer, allowing for the application of riboflavin eye drops. The corneas and anterior chambers soak up the medicinal fluid for 20 minutes.

During the second component of the treatment, the targeted cornea is exposed to UV light for 30 minutes. Additional Vitamin B drops are also administered at this time. The drops interact with the UV light to strengthen the collagen fibers within the corneas. The liquid also blocks the UV light from penetrating the eyes and causing any intraocular damage.

Corneal Crosslinking Recovery

If you would like to learn more about our innovative solutions for keratoconus and post-LASIK corneal ectasia, contact our team in Raleigh today to schedule a private consultation. Dr. Vinod Jindal or Dr. Sumeet Jindal will answer all your questions transparently and provide an individualized corneal crosslinking treatment plan to restore your comfort, vision, and quality of life.

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Corneal Surgery FAQ

Does Crosslinking Hurt?

While the procedure itself is rarely painful, some patients experience mild discomfort in the first few days following corneal crosslinking. A burning or gritty sensation, as well as light sensitivity, are all possible side effects. Wearing dark glasses when outdoors can help. You can take over-the-counter pain medications like Tylenol as needed, and Dr. Vinod Jindal or Dr. Sumeet Jindal may also recommend artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. Don’t rub, scratch, or touch your eyes. The discomfort will dissipate within the first week after treatment – or sooner.

When Was Corneal Crosslinking First Performed?

Collagen crosslinking has been successfully performed around the world since 1998. There is a wealth of peer-reviewed articles attesting to its efficacy in treating keratoconus and post-LASIK ectasia.

How Effective Is Corneal Collagen Crosslinking?

In key studies, around 95 percent of participants experienced a cessation of keratoconus progression after corneal crosslinking. Around 60-70 percent of patients experienced corneal cone flattening by 1-2 diopters.

Does CXL Improve Vision in Patients With Keratoconus and Post-LASIK Ectasia?

While the main goal of the treatment is to slow the progression of the disease, studies show that some patients experience slight vision correction following collagen crosslinking in the corneas.

Does CXL Need To Be Repeated?

Most research studies show that a single corneal crosslinking session can continue to provide positive results for 5 or more years. However, there is limited data on repeat CXL treatments.

Can Crosslinking Be Performed Without Removal of the Corneal Epithelium?

No. The epithelium must be removed in order to let the riboflavin drops penetrate the corneas and the anterior chambers. There are currently no FDA clinical trials that have shown success in treating keratoconus or post-LASIK ectasia when the epithelium was still in place during CXL. Riboflavin does not have the ability to pass through an intact epithelium. However, in the future, there may be ways to engineer the molecules so that removing the epithelium is not necessary.

Can LASIK Be Performed With Corneal Crosslinking?

LASIK is not recommended in those with keratoconus, even after CXL. The FDA has not approved LASIK technology to be used in combination with crosslinking.

What Are the Risks?

Corneal crosslinking can cause temporary eye irritation, with the eye and tear film taking several weeks to completely heal. Other risks include the following:

Scarring
Infection
Swelling
Inflammation
Corneal haze