Leading Corneal Cross-Linking Treatment in Long Beach, CA: SoCal Eye’s Comprehensive Approach
Are you experiencing symptoms like blurry vision, distortions, halos, shadows, or ghosting? These could be signs of corneal irregularities, such as Keratoconus or Ectasia. SoCal Eye offers an FDA-approved treatment for these conditions – Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL). Detecting these conditions early is crucial, and seeking treatment from a Cornea Specialist is vital. SoCal Eye is proud to have Cornea Specialists and Cornea Surgeons on staff in Long Beach and Los Alamitos. Begin your journey to clearer vision by scheduling a Consultation. Call(562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS at (562) 598-7728, or submit an Online Consultation Request.
Understanding Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL):
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) stands as an FDA-approved treatment for early to moderate Keratoconus or Ectasia, a condition that may result from LASIK or PRK surgery. It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure combining eye drops and ultra-violet A (UVA) light to strengthen and stabilize a weakened or irregular-shaped cornea.
How CXL Works:
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2):
- Functioning as a photo-enhancer, riboflavin enables the cross-linking reaction.
- Derived from various food sources, it plays a crucial role in the cross-linking process.
- Ultra-Violet A (UVA):
- The weakest of the sun’s three types of invisible light rays.
- A UV light source irradiates the cornea soaked in the riboflavin solution.
- This cross-linking process stiffens the cornea by increasing the number of molecular bonds in the collagen.
CXL Procedure Overview:
- Numbing Eye Drops:
- Administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Epithelium Removal:
- The Cornea Surgeon removes the thin outer layer of the cornea (Epithelium) for deeper medication penetration.
- Riboflavin Application:
- Vitamin B2 eye drops are applied to the cornea for approximately 30 minutes.
- UVA Light Exposure:
- Directed at the cornea to activate the riboflavin and form new bonds between collagen fibers.
- Protective Contact Lens:
- Placed over the eye for about a week to aid corneal healing.
Corneal cross-linking creates new corneal collagen cross-links. This results in shortening and thickening of the corneal collagen fibrils and leads to stiffening and strengthening of the cornea.
Recovery from CXL:
- Return to Normal Activities:
- Usually takes 1-2 weeks after surgery.
- Post-Surgery Care:
- Avoid eye makeup, smoky/dusty places, eye touching, rubbing, and swimming for the first week.
- Bandage Contact Lens:
- If dislodged, do not replace it; contact your physician.
- Monitoring for Symptoms:
- In case of severe eye pain or sudden vision changes, contact your doctor immediately.
SoCal Eye’s Exclusive CXL Offering:
- Expertise:
- SoCal Eye is one of the few practices in Southern California offering CXL since 2016.
- Team of Specialists:
- Cornea Specialists and Cornea Surgeons on staff in Long Beach and Los Alamitos.
Schedule Your Consultation:
Embark on your path to clearer vision with a consultation at SoCal Eye. For Corneal Cross-Linking treatment in Long Beach, schedule an appointment today at (562) 531-2020 or submit an Online Consultation Request.
Trust your eyes to the experts at SoCal Eye – leaders in Corneal Cross-Linking Treatment in Long Beach, CA.