Treatments

Keratoconus (C3R)

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (C3R) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and bulges outward, causing distorted vision. In C3R, riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops are applied to the cornea, followed by controlled exposure to ultraviolet-A (UVA) light. This process strengthens the collagen fibers within the cornea, increasing its stability and preventing further progression of the disease. The procedure does not reverse existing vision loss but helps preserve current vision and delay or avoid the need for corneal transplantation.

  • Treats keratoconus and other corneal thinning disorders
  • Strengthens corneal collagen fibers to prevent further bulging
  • Involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and UVA light
  • Outpatient/day-care procedure, usually takes about 30–60 minutes
  • Performed under topical anesthesia (numbing eye drops)
  • Aims to halt disease progression, not reverse existing damage
  • Minimal discomfort during recovery
  • May delay or prevent need for corneal transplant