Treatment
Corneal Cross-Linking
Corneal cross-linking (CXL) strengthens the cornea to halt the progression of keratoconus and post-refractive ectasia using riboflavin and UV light.
Overview
Understanding the Procedure
Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the collagen bonds within the cornea. It is the gold-standard treatment for halting the progression of keratoconus — a condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing distorted vision.
During the procedure, riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops are applied to the cornea, followed by controlled ultraviolet-A (UVA) light exposure. This combination creates new cross-links between collagen fibres, stiffening and stabilising the cornea.
Cross-linking does not reverse existing keratoconus but prevents further deterioration, preserving the patient's current level of vision and potentially avoiding the need for a corneal transplant in the future.
Miss Tina Khanam is a corneal specialist with extensive experience in managing keratoconus. She performs both epithelium-off (standard) and epithelium-on (transepithelial) cross-linking techniques depending on the individual case.
On Video
Watch Miss Khanam explain
Cone-shaped vision: decoding keratoconus and modern fixes for better sight
What is keratoconus? Join Miss Tina Khanam, a dedicated ophthalmologist, as she delves into this eye condition affecting the cornea. Keratoconus transforms the normally spherical cornea into a cone shape, leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity.…
Benefits
What This Means for You
- Halts keratoconus progression in over 95% of cases
- May prevent the need for corneal transplant
- Minimally invasive day-case procedure
- Can be combined with other treatments (e.g. intrastromal ring segments)
- Proven long-term stability — effects last 10+ years
Our Approach
Consultant-Led Care
Miss Khanam conducts thorough corneal imaging including topography, tomography, and pachymetry to assess the stage and progression of keratoconus before recommending cross-linking.
Treatment is typically recommended for progressive keratoconus — where serial scans show the cornea is continuing to thin or steepen. Early intervention produces the best long-term outcomes.
Suitability
Is This Right for You?
- Patients with progressive keratoconus
- Post-refractive surgery ectasia
- Young adults where keratoconus is more likely to progress
- Patients with corneal thickness of at least 400 microns
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Cross-linking is primarily designed to stabilise the cornea and prevent further deterioration. Some patients do experience a modest improvement in vision as the cornea stiffens, but this is not the primary goal.
Quick Facts
Duration
60-90 minutes per eye
Anaesthesia
Topical anaesthetic drops
Recovery
Return to work in 3-5 days; full recovery 1-3 months
Pain Level
Moderate discomfort
Guide Price
surgeon's fee per eye (additional fees apply)
A detailed quote will be provided following your consultation.
View All FeesReady to Learn More?
Take our quick suitability quiz or book a consultation to discuss your options with your consultant.
Related
Understanding Your Condition
Learn more about the conditions this treatment addresses. Knowledge is the first step toward confident decision-making.
Take the Next Step
Book a consultation to discuss Corneal Cross-Linking with your consultant. Transparent advice, no pressure, and a personalised plan for your vision.