Corneal cross-linking strengthens a weakened cornea using riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and controlled ultraviolet-A light, which forms new bonds between the corneal fibres. It is used for progressive keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges. The aim is to stop the condition from getting worse, not to restore lost clarity.
Keratoconus treatment in Mumbai at Apex starts with corneal mapping and thickness tests to check whether the cornea is changing. Treatment works best when started early, especially in children and young adults. A bandage contact lens is worn for a few days afterwards, and drops follow. Glasses or special contact lenses may still be needed. As a cornea specialist in Mumbai, the team monitors healing through follow-up visits.
How the Procedure Can Help
Cross-linking stabilises the cornea and can delay or avoid the need for a corneal transplant.
Risks and Considerations
It is not a vision-correction procedure. Discomfort for two to three days and temporary haze are common. Delayed healing and infection are uncommon, and some corneas continue to change and need retreatment or another option. Increasing pain or redness needs urgent review.