Corneal Collagen Crosslinking

Corneal Collagen Crosslinking is the proven, effective treatment to prevent the progression of keratoconus; if performed early enough, it can prevent many of the problems associated with the condition. The procedure combines the use of ultra-violet light and Riboflavin eye drops.

years

of combined Eye
Surgery experience

30k

plus

eyes surgeries
completed

550

plus

lectures nationally
and internationally

What is corneal collagen crosslinking?

Cross-linking is a medical procedure that combines the use of ultra-violet light and Riboflavin eye drops to treat keratoconus. During cross-linking the cornea is saturated with riboflavin (vitamin B2) is dripped onto the cornea and then exposed to ultra-violet light.

The UV light catalyses a chemical reaction which leads to the formation of bonds between collagen fibres in the cornea also known as cross-linking. This strengthens the cornea and prevents further shape change typical in keratoconus.

OCL offers cutting edge high fluence Avedro Collagen Crosslinking. The main advantage of this technology is that the treatment takes just a few minutes to perform on each eye, making the whole experience easier for the patient. Conventional non-Avedro treatments take up to an hour for each eye.

Corneal collagen crosslinking

I am a student in London, I was diagnosed back at home and learned that my condition was urgent. As soon as I arrived in London , I contacted my surgeon at OCL and I want to thank him for his quick response , care and professionalism. My surgery went perfectly. I received all my medicine from the hospital with a timetable and my recovery was really fast . I am also receiving enough of follow up appointments to have an update on my condition. Thank you very much.

Types of corneal collagen crosslinking

The primary corneal collagen crosslinking procedure offered by OCL is the advanced version, also known as Avedro Collagen Crosslinking. This rapidly reduces the time necessary to perform the procedure in comparison to the traditional method, which can take up to an hour.

Another treatment option available for keratoconus is Keraring surgery, which involves the insertion of precision ring segments into a specially made channel in the cornea. They act to flatten the cornea into a more normal shape. This normally results in reduced need to wear contact lenses.

My optician initially mentioned that I may have Keratoconus in one eye but told me not to worry about it. However, upon researching this condition in more detail and feeling my eyes deteriorate further, I searched for someone who knew what they were talking about, and with OCL I found the best out there. My surgeon diagnosed me with Keratoconus in both eyes and said I need cross-linking to stop this progressing. He was clear, professional and friendly from start to finish and, thus far, the operation has been completely successful. I would recommend OCL over anyone for this type of operation.

What is the collagen cross linking process?

Consultation

We’ll take you through the process step by step and explain the potential complications to help you to weigh up the risks and benefits in order to make an informed decision regarding corneal collagen crosslinking.

Treatment plan

Our consultants will tailor a bespoke treatment plan just for you, based on your current eye sight and personal needs.

Preparing for surgery

Our dedicated team of consultants, nurses and patient co-ordinators will take you through our pre-op process ensuring all your questions are answered and you’re totally at ease.

The procedure

The procedure is painless and minimally invasive, and is done as a day case under topical anaesthetic drops. The cornea is soaked in Riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and then an ultraviolet light (UVA) is appleid to the cornea. A bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea at the end of the procedure for comfort and to protect it whilst it heals

Recovery

After undergoing corneal cross linking for keratoconus, patients may experience pain in the affected eye for 3-5 days. They can expect to experience sensitivity to light. The bandage contact lens will be removed at a follow-up appointment after a few days. Patients should take time off work and other strenuous activities for up to a week, to allow time to heal.

Follow up consult

After your surgery, we’ll be in touch to support you and follow up to see how you’re getting on with your new and improved eye sight.

Yearly checkup

We encourage yearly check ups to ensure your eye sight is remaining in perfect condition.