Cross-linking for keratoconus or ectasia, considered after corneal mapping.
Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea gradually thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision. A similar weakening, called ectasia, can rarely happen after laser eye surgery. Corneal cross-linking uses riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen the bonds between collagen fibres in the cornea.
The aim is to slow or stop the condition from getting worse. Cross-linking does not usually restore the original shape of the cornea or remove the need for glasses or specialist contact lenses. It is generally recommended when mapping shows the cornea is changing over time.
These are general points only. Whether a procedure is suitable for you is decided by the treating ophthalmologist after a full eye examination and detailed measurements in the clinic.
You share your current glasses or contact lens prescription, any previous eye reports and your general medical history. The team confirms whether a full assessment is worthwhile.
In Istanbul, the ophthalmologist examines both eyes and takes detailed measurements. Drops that widen the pupils may blur your vision for a few hours, so you should not drive afterwards.
After numbing drops, the surface layer of the cornea is usually removed, riboflavin drops are applied for a set time and the eye is exposed to ultraviolet light. A bandage contact lens is placed at the end.
The eye is checked after the procedure, usually the next day, before you fly. Later checks are arranged with an eye doctor near home, with your reports in hand.
The eye is usually painful, watery and sensitive to light while the surface heals. The clinic provides pain relief and antibiotic drops.
The bandage contact lens is usually removed once the surface has healed. Vision is still blurry.
Vision gradually settles. You may need a new glasses or contact lens prescription once the cornea has stabilised.
Regular corneal mapping checks that the condition has stabilised. Some people need repeat treatment.
Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.
Its main aim is to stop the cornea getting worse. Some people notice a small improvement over time, but you should not expect sharper vision from the treatment itself.
Most people with keratoconus still need glasses or specialist contact lenses after cross-linking. Lens wear is restarted once the eye has healed.
Often one eye is treated at a time because of the discomfort and blurred vision in the first days, but this depends on your situation and the clinic.
It depends on the procedure: most people plan for the assessment, the procedure day and at least one follow-up check before flying. Your coordinator confirms the schedule once the clinic has examined you.
It depends on the procedure the ophthalmologist recommends after the examination, the technology or lens used and whether one or both eyes are treated. You receive a written quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.
Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.
This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.