Corneal Cross-Linking (iLink)
Keratoconus, often referred to as “KC,” is a non-inflammatory condition in which the normally round, dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, developing a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity. This creates distortion in your vision that can range from mild to significantly impairing. Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved outpatient procedure designed to stop keratoconus from progressing further.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Corneal Cross-Linking?
iLink FDA-approved cross-linking combines prescription eye drops — Photrexa Viscous and Photrexa (riboflavin-based formulations) — with ultraviolet A (UVA) light from the KXL system to create new collagen cross-links within the cornea. This strengthens and stiffens the cornea, with the goal of slowing or halting further progression of keratoconus and preserving your vision.
How the Procedure Works
Your doctor applies topical anesthesia to numb the eye, then gently removes the epithelium — the thin outer layer of the cornea — to allow the riboflavin drops to penetrate the corneal tissue. This is currently the only cross-linking technique deemed safe and effective by the FDA. You’ll typically remain awake throughout, with relaxing medication and numbing drops available if needed.
The procedure itself takes about an hour, though you should plan to be at the office for roughly two hours total to allow time for preparation and recovery. During treatment, Photrexa Viscous drops are applied to the cornea for at least 30 minutes, additional Photrexa drops may be used depending on corneal thickness, and the cornea is then exposed to UV light for about 30 minutes while drops continue.
What to Expect Afterward
- Avoid rubbing your eyes for the first five days after the procedure
- You may notice light sensitivity and discomfort in the treated eye; sunglasses can help
- Contact us immediately for severe pain or any sudden decrease in vision
- If your bandage contact lens falls out or becomes dislodged, do not replace it yourself — call our office right away
A bandage contact lens is placed immediately after treatment to protect the healing surface. Once numbing drops wear off, some discomfort is common — often described as a gritty or burning sensation — and is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief and artificial tears. Severe pain, though uncommon, may warrant prescription medication. There is no visible change to the appearance of your eyes after an iLink procedure.
Cross-linking is often paired with monitoring for other cornea-related conditions, and in more advanced keratoconus cases may be followed by DSAEK or full corneal transplantation. If you’ve noticed progressively worsening vision, distortion, or a diagnosis of keratoconus, don’t wait — early cross-linking offers the best chance of preserving your current vision. Contact Louisiana Eye Specialists at to schedule an evaluation.
Request an AppointmentCorneal Cross-Linking FAQs
Does cross-linking cure keratoconus?
No, but it’s highly effective at halting or slowing progression, which helps preserve the vision you currently have.
Is the procedure painful?
There is typically minimal discomfort during the treatment itself; some gritty or burning discomfort is common during the first day or two of recovery.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients notice improved comfort within a few days, though full visual stabilization can take several weeks to months.
Will I need glasses or contacts after cross-linking?
Cross-linking stabilizes the cornea but doesn’t necessarily eliminate the need for corrective lenses, which are still used to optimize vision.
Am I a candidate for cross-linking?
Patients with progressive keratoconus, confirmed through corneal imaging, are typically the best candidates. We’ll evaluate your corneal thickness and shape to confirm.
What happens if keratoconus continues to progress despite cross-linking?
In advanced or unresponsive cases, options like DSAEK or full corneal transplantation may be considered.