Corneal Crosslinking Brookfield

Corneal crosslinking is a minimally invasive treatment option used to address keratoconus, post-LASIK ectasia, and other conditions that affect the cornea. It uses specially formulated eye drops and ultraviolet light to create new links between the collagen fibers in your cornea.

For patients with progressive keratoconus, epithelium-off corneal cross linking is currently the only FDA-approved treatment for progressive keratoconus. Epithelium-on corneal cross linking is currently available on an investigational basis, but it is not an FDA-approved treatment and may not be covered by your insurance.

At Milwaukee Eye Surgeons, Dr. Weinlander offers epithelium-off crosslinking, which involves the removal of the thin outer layer of your cornea (epithelium). This process allows the specially formulated eye drops to penetrate the corneal tissue deep below your eye’s surface.

Additionally, Dr. Weinlander offers a full range of treatments for keratoconus and post-LASIK ectasia. These comprehensive treatments are great options for patients who are not ideal candidates for corneal crosslinking.

To determine if you’re a good candidate for corneal crosslinking, Dr. Weinlander conducts a comprehensive eye exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and goals for treatment.

Typically, Dr. Weinlander recommends corneal cross linking for people recently diagnosed with keratoconus. You’re more likely to benefit from the procedure if your cornea is relatively healthy and has a normal shape.

Early intervention with corneal crosslinking can stabilize or improve the shape of your cornea. Not only does corneal crosslinking improve your vision, but it makes it possible to wear contacts comfortably.

Corneal crosslinking requires a quick, in-office visit. During your appointment, Dr. Weinlander administers a local anesthetic and has you recline in a comfortable chair.

Once you’re situated, Dr. Weinlander carefully removes the epithelium from your cornea and places riboflavin eye drops into your eye. He then points a UV light at your eye, which creates new links between the collagen fibers in your cornea

Following your corneal crosslinking procedure, Dr. Weinlander puts a bandage contact lens in your eye. The temporary lens limits pain and speeds up your body’s natural healing process.

Epithelium-off corneal crosslinking is the only FDA approved treatment protocol at this time. It has a proven track record of success and most people who undergo treatment experience a significant improvement in their corneal shape and vision. What’s more, even people with advanced keratoconus can benefit.

To learn more about corneal crosslinking, schedule an appointment at Milwaukee Eye Surgeons. Book a consultation online, or call the office today.