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Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)

What Is Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)?

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat keratoconus and other corneal weakening disorders. The treatment works by strengthening the cornea through a combination of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) eye drops and controlled ultraviolet (UV) light. This process creates new collagen bonds, stabilizing the cornea and helping prevent further thinning or bulging.

Who It’s For

Corneal Cross-Linking is ideal for patients diagnosed with progressive keratoconus or corneal ectasia after refractive surgery. It is designed to stop the condition from worsening and maintain your existing vision while reducing the risk of needing a corneal transplant.

Stable Vision for 12+ Months

Stable Vision for 12+ Months

Patients with keratoconus that is progressing may still be candidates, but it’s important that other eye parameters are stable before treatment for best long-term success.

Age 18 & Above

Age 18 & Above

CXL is typically recommended for adults and young adults diagnosed with keratoconus, as early intervention can preserve vision for years to come.

Healthy Eyes

Healthy Eyes

Candidates should have no active eye infections or severe scarring of the cornea. A healthy ocular surface is important to ensure effective riboflavin absorption and healing.

Seeking Visual Independence

Seeking Visual Independence

While CXL does not eliminate glasses or contact lenses, it helps maintain corneal shape so vision can be corrected more predictably with lenses or other treatments.

Other Procedures

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Benefits & Recovery

At Vision Quest Eye Clinic, Corneal Cross-Linking offers a safe, effective way to preserve your vision and prevent worsening of keratoconus without major surgery.

Sharper, Clearer Vision

Sharper, Clearer Vision

CXL helps stabilize the cornea and can lead to gradual improvement in corneal shape, making vision correction with glasses or contacts easier.

Quick, Lasting Results

Quick, Lasting Results

The procedure takes about an hour and typically requires only one treatment per eye, with long-term stabilization results in most patients.

Long-Term Care

Long-Term Care

With proper follow-up and management, most patients experience stable corneal health and reduced risk of needing a transplant for many years.

How the Procedure Works

Your treatment starts with a detailed eye evaluation to confirm the progression of keratoconus and determine if CXL is right for you.

Eye Mapping & Consultation

(15–20 minutes)

Eye Mapping & Consultation

We begin with advanced corneal imaging to map the exact shape and thickness of your cornea. This allows us to customize your treatment plan and confirm candidacy.

Flap Creation (Bladeless)

(10 minutes)

Flap Creation (Bladeless)

Unlike LASIK, no flap is created. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) may be gently removed to allow better absorption of riboflavin drops.

Vision Correction & Healing

(15–20 minutes)

Vision Correction & Healing

Riboflavin eye drops are applied to the cornea, followed by UV light exposure for about 30 minutes. This strengthens the corneal structure and begins the healing process.
Mona R
19:51 31 Jul 25
Very satisfied! So happy to be able to see. Dr Shehz is awesome, very quick, painless!!
Lucas Rocha
18:24 24 Jul 25
I can't believe I am seeing this well. This place is remarkable. Dr Shehz is the best; highly recommend!!
Tonya Moore
21:22 23 Jul 25
This is a miracle!! I never thought I would be able to see like this again!! Dr Shehz is an amazing surgeon and human. Highly recommend!!!
Santos Navarro
21:05 03 Jul 25
I can't believe how much of a difference this made. Highly recommend Dr Shehz. I was nervous I didn't think it would be as good as it is.
Max Garcia
21:35 01 Jul 25
Dr Shehz hooked it up!! No glasses; he is the absolute best.
Fred Lindt
15:10 18 Jun 25
Did a good job. Would recommend to anybody
Robert Murray
00:07 06 Jun 25
I am very impressed with West Texas Eye Associates. My first appointment was with Dr. Bradley to determine that I was a candidate for cataract surgery and lenses. I was scheduled for surgery on both eyes with Dr. Shehz. One eye then 2 weeks the other eye. Both surgeries went as planned, were painless, quick and no recovery time. I had no issues seeing and had immediate results. Over the next week it got even better. The front desk staff was very efficient and friendly , the eye techs were all friendly and efficient, and the Doctors are well trained, explained the procedure in detail and provided excellent care. I could not be more pleased with the entire process and my new vision. I highly recommend West Texas Eye Associates to anyone with eye issues.
Terry Fowler
23:23 05 Jun 25
Dr. shah’s was wonderful. Very professional and answered all my questions. I had cataract surgery and lense replacement and it all went perfectly! A great experience for sure.
G D
21:38 03 Jun 25
Great results, great doctor!!
Jerry Smith
16:35 03 Jun 25
The entire staff was awesome !!!! The follow up was amazing and I’d not hesitate to use their services again !!!!

FAQs

Our specialists in Dallas and Greenville are here to answer all your questions and make sure you feel confident about your treatment.

CXL is a procedure that uses riboflavin (vitamin B2) and UV light to strengthen the cornea and prevent the progression of keratoconus or corneal ectasia.

The primary goal is to stop progression, not restore vision. However, some patients experience improved corneal shape, which can enhance visual clarity with glasses or contacts.

You may feel some discomfort after the procedure, but numbing drops are used during treatment to keep you comfortable.

Initial healing takes a few days, but full visual recovery can take several weeks to months. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.

For most patients, CXL provides long-lasting stabilization, but continued monitoring is essential to ensure keratoconus does not progress.

If you have progressive keratoconus or corneal weakening, you may be a good candidate. A comprehensive eye exam will confirm eligibility

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