Corneal Crosslinking and Keratoconus
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Corneal Cross-Linking in Houston
Corneal crosslinking is a breakthrough treatment in Houston, TX, designed to halt the progression of keratoconus and reduce the need for invasive procedures. This quick, in-office treatment at Houston Eye Associates strengthens corneas weakened by keratoconus, helping to preserve vision and avoid corneal transplant surgery. Our expert team is here to provide advanced, FDA-approved care to protect and stabilize your eyesight.
What is Corneal Crosslinking?
Corneal crosslinking is a specialized procedure designed to halt or slow the progression of keratoconus by strengthening the cornea. This FDA-approved treatment is a significant advancement for keratoconus management, and Houston Eye Associates is proud to use the latest Glaukos technology for this procedure.
How Does Corneal Crosslinking Work?
Corneal crosslinking involves:
- Application of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Riboflavin drops are applied to the cornea to enhance the crosslinking effect.
- UV Light Exposure: The cornea is exposed to a controlled amount of ultraviolet (UV) light, which activates the riboflavin to form new collagen bonds within the corneal tissue.
- Strengthening the Cornea: These new bonds strengthen the cornea, preventing further thinning and bulging.
Benefits of Corneal Crosslinking
Corneal crosslinking offers several key benefits for keratoconus patients:
- Slows Progression: Helps prevent further vision loss by stabilizing the cornea.
- Improves Stability: Patients often experience greater stability, which can improve tolerance to corrective lenses.
- FDA-Approved Technology: Our practice uses Glaukos’ FDA-approved crosslinking technology, ensuring safety and precision for our patients.
What to Expect
Eligibility
Ideal candidates are typically in the early to moderate stages of keratoconus. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your condition and discuss whether you’re a candidate.
Procedure Details
- The entire procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes.
- It’s performed under topical anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Most patients can expect a recovery period of a few days to a few weeks, during which the cornea stabilizes.
Aftercare
Following the procedure, patients should avoid rubbing their eyes and follow any prescribed medication or protective eyewear. Our team provides thorough aftercare guidance to support recovery and vision stabilization.
Does Insurance Cover iLink Corneal Cross-Linking
The medical necessity of FDA-approved iLink™ corneal cross-linking for keratoconus is now widely acknowledged, with over 95% of commercial insurance providers offering coverage for the procedure. For more details on your insurance options and to see the latest list of insurers that cover corneal cross-linking, contact us today.
Why Choose Houston Eye Associates?
At Houston Eye Associates, our team is committed to providing the most effective treatments for eye health. With advanced technology and FDA-approved tools from Glaukos, we offer a safe and effective solution for managing keratoconus. Our skilled ophthalmologists are experienced in crosslinking, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does corneal crosslinking last?
Results are generally long-lasting, with many patients experiencing stable vision for years following treatment.
Is corneal crosslinking safe?
Yes, corneal crosslinking is FDA-approved and is widely regarded as a safe, effective option for managing keratoconus.
Can I still wear contacts after crosslinking?
Yes, many patients find that contacts fit better and are more comfortable after their corneas stabilize from crosslinking.
What if I’m not eligible for crosslinking?
If crosslinking isn’t right for you, our specialists will discuss other options tailored to your needs.
Contact Our Cornea Specialists
Houston Eye Associates is proud to offer collagen cross-linking—an FDA-approved treatment specifically designed to stabilize and strengthen the cornea for patients with keratoconus. To learn more, please contact us today.
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