Strengthen and Protect Your Vision with iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking at Boston Vision
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with keratoconus or other forms of corneal ectasia, you may be wondering what treatments are available to preserve your vision. At Boston Vision, we are proud to offer iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking, the only FDA-approved procedure proven to slow or halt the progression of keratoconus. Backed by cutting-edge technology and a team of expert eye care providers, this advanced treatment helps patients across Boston, MA, and the greater New England area take control of their eye health.
What Is iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye—to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular curvature can lead to distorted vision, sensitivity to light, and a significant decline in quality of life. Left untreated, it may result in the need for a corneal transplant.
iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to strengthen the cornea and slow or stop keratoconus from progressing. It works by using ultraviolet (UV) light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to create new bonds (or “cross-links”) between the collagen fibers in your cornea, stabilizing its structure.
Learn more about how this FDA-approved procedure works on our iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking page.
Benefits of iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking
- FDA-approved: iLink® is the only cross-linking procedure approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- Stops progression: The primary goal of the treatment is to halt further corneal thinning and vision loss.
- Non-invasive: No incisions or stitches are required.
- Preserves vision: By treating the disease early, patients can maintain better visual acuity and potentially avoid corneal transplants.
- One-time treatment: Most patients only require a single session for long-term results.
At Boston Vision, we offer this innovative treatment as part of our mission to bring state-of-the-art eye care to patients throughout Brookline, Medford, Lawrence, Wellesley, Milford, Andover, and Burlington.
Who Is a Candidate for Corneal Cross-Linking?
The best candidates for iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking are patients who have been diagnosed with progressive keratoconus or post-LASIK ectasia. The earlier the condition is detected, the better the chances of preventing further vision deterioration.
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, such as increased blurriness, ghosting, or difficulty seeing at night, it’s important to schedule an eye exam with a specialist. Our experienced ophthalmologists will conduct comprehensive corneal imaging to determine if you’re a candidate for cross-linking.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The iLink® procedure typically takes about an hour and is performed in-office under topical anesthesia (numbing eye drops). Here’s a general overview:
- Your doctor applies riboflavin eye drops to saturate the cornea.
- UV light is directed at the eye for approximately 30 minutes.
- The combination of riboflavin and UV light strengthens the corneal fibers.
- A bandage contact lens may be placed over the eye for comfort during healing.
After the procedure, most patients experience mild discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision for a few days. Full recovery usually takes several weeks, with regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Why Choose Boston Vision?
Boston Vision is a trusted leader in innovative eye care procedures across New England. Our experienced providers—including Dr. Samir Melki, Dr. Jason Brenner, Dr. Vinny Keshav, Dr. John Lee, Dr. James Gregoire, and the rest of our skilled care team—are dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care using the latest medical advancements.
With seven convenient locations in Brookline, Medford, Lawrence, Wellesley, Milford, Andover, and Burlington, we make it easy for patients throughout the Boston area to access top-tier eye care close to home.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Vision
If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus or are concerned about changes in your vision, don’t wait to seek treatment. iLink® Corneal Cross-Linking at Boston Vision can help protect your sight and preserve your quality of life. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your eye health journey with expert care and advanced treatment options.
Visit www.bostonvision.com to learn more or schedule your consultation today.
