What is Corneal Cross-Linking?

Our Eye Group center is offering a variety of eye care services to the people of Madison, including cornea-based treatments for Keratoconus. Our eye doctor is providing corneal cross-linking, a treatment that works to stabilize the cornea.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a condition in which the eye's cornea bulges outward. The cornea is a transparent layer at the front eye, covering the iris and pupil; it provides the focus of the light rays and protects the inner structures of the eye. In keratoconus, the cornea becomes weak and thin, making it harder to hold down the internal pressure of the eye. The cornea ends up adopting a cone-like shape that interferes with the person's ability to see. Someone with keratoconus might experience the following symptoms:

• Blurry vision
• Distorted vision
• Double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Astigmatism
• An inability to see a dim light
• A discoloration rim at the front of the eye

If you notice these symptoms are continual, make sure to schedule an eye exam with your local ophthalmologist. When left untreated, keratoconus can lead to permanent vision loss.

How Does Corneal Cross-Linking Work?

At an eye care center, the eye doctor will offer a few treatment options for keratoconus, like scleral contact lenses or corneal implants. For some, the best treatment option will be corneal cross-linking, a procedure that combines eyedrop medication with ultraviolet (UV) light. This combination will develop the issues of the patient's cornea, making it stronger and less likely to bulge. Corneal cross-linking stops the eye condition from getting worse. Some patients prefer this treatment method over eye surgery.

What to Expect From Corneal Cross-Linking 

Your eye care providers will walk you through this process in a safe manner. First, you'll be expected to take drops to numb your eyes. The doctor might add vitamin B2 eye drops to enhance your cornea's ability to absorb light. The eye drops could take 30 minutes to fully soak in. During this time, you will be laying on a procedural chair and looking into the overhead look. If you feel any pain during this procedure, make sure to tell the provider.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Ophthalmologist in Madison 

Call Eye Group today at (601) 985-9120 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our ophthalmologist.