Keratoconus Treatment in Boise, Idaho
Protecting your vision before keratoconus takes it.
Corneal Crosslinking (CXL)
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal condition that causes the eye's clear front surface to gradually thin and bulge into a cone shape, distorting vision in ways that glasses and standard contact lenses often can't fully correct. Left untreated, it can lead to significant vision loss. The Eye Associates is proud to offer the first and only FDA-approved corneal crosslinking treatment for keratoconus, right here in the Treasure Valley.
Corneal crosslinking is a gentle, safe, and effective treatment for keratoconus and post-LASIK ectasia, progressive thinning disorders of the cornea that, in severe cases, may require a corneal transplant. CXL prevents progression of the condition by strengthening the corneal stroma, but further vision rehabilitation may be required.
How Does CXL Work?
This minimally invasive outpatient procedure combines Photrexa® riboflavin (Vitamin B2) eye drops with controlled UVA light from the KXL® system to create new collagen crosslinks that stiffen and stabilize the cornea, halting the progression of keratoconus.
The outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is gently and temporarily removed to allow the riboflavin drops to absorb fully into the corneal tissue. The cornea is then treated with UVA light. Together, the riboflavin and UV light promote the formation of new collagen bonds that reinforce the weak spots caused by keratoconus.
This epi-off corneal crosslinking procedure with Photrexa and KXL technology has been rigorously tested in FDA clinical trials. It is clinically proven, safe, and effective at stopping keratoconus progression in the vast majority of patients.
Intacs for Keratoconus
Intacs are small, crescent-shaped polymer inserts placed within the cornea to reshape and stabilize its front surface. FDA-approved since 1999, Intacs are used alongside corneal crosslinking in appropriate cases to both stabilize the cornea and improve visual quality. For many patients, they offer an effective alternative to a corneal transplant.
Is Keratoconus Treatment Right for You?
Ideal candidates for corneal crosslinking and/or Intacs are those identified early in their keratoconus diagnosis, before significant thinning has occurred. We treat patients aged 15 to 50.
Children with a family history of keratoconus should be screened as early as possible. Early intervention consistently produces the best long-term outcomes and can protect vision that would otherwise continue to deteriorate.
Schedule a Keratoconus Evaluation in Boise
If you've been diagnosed with keratoconus, or if your prescription keeps changing and glasses no longer seem to help, call us at (208) 342-5151 or request an appointment at our Meridian or Caldwell office. The sooner keratoconus is treated, the better the outcome.