Corneal Cross-Linking Specialist

What is astigmatism?

Astigmatism is an eye condition that involves abnormal curvature of your cornea and interferes with your ability to see clearly. When you have astigmatism, the images you see are often distorted due to the way light enters the corneal lens.

The most common form of the condition is known as regular astigmatism, often correctable with specially designed toric contact lenses or LASIK surgery.

Another form of astigmatism, known as irregular astigmatism, is more difficult to treat. The most common type of irregular astigmatism is keratoconus, a progressive condition where your cornea thins out and the curvature steepens.

Keratoconus is most common in children and young adults and can worsen with age. In the worst cases, keratoconus results in corneal scarring and the need for a corneal transplant.

What is corneal cross-linking?

Corneal cross-linking is a procedure Dr. Hart uses to stop the progression of keratoconus by stabilizing the surface of your eye. Typically, he recommends the procedure for people 14 years and older. Dr. Hart can determine if corneal cross-linking is right for you based on your age, your eye health, and the progression of your astigmatism.

During the corneal cross-linking procedure, Dr. Hart saturates your corneal tissue with the vitamin riboflavin, then uses an ultraviolet light that strengthens the tissue fibers of your cornea. With stronger corneal tissues, Dr. Hart can reduce the keratoconus-related corneal steepening and scarring.

What can I expect after the procedure?

Following your corneal cross-linking treatment, Dr. Hart uses a special contact lens that acts like a bandage. He may also recommend a topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory ointment to help your eye heal.

Dr. Hart monitors the healing process of your eye to determine how long the contact needs to remain in place. As your eye heals, you may experience altered vision, irritation, and excessive watering while the contact is in place.

You need to wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and environmental irritants during your recovery. Before your procedure, Dr. Hart can discuss with you how much time you need to be off from work and other activities while you recover.

To find out more about corneal cross-linking as a treatment for astigmatism, schedule a consultation at Longhorn Eye Care online or by phone.