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Home   |  Our Services  |  Cornea  |   Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking

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  1. What is Keratoconus?
  2. How Does Collagen Cross-Linking Work?
  3. How is Collagen Cross-Linking Performed?
  4. What to Expect
  5. What are the benefits of Collagen Cross-Linking?
  6. Contact Us Today

Kung Eye Center offer Collagen Cross-Linking at either of its New Jersey or Staten Island locations. Corneal collagen cross-linking, or CXL for short, uses ultraviolet (UV) light and vitamin B2 (riboflavin) eye drops to strengthen the corneal tissue. This treatment is the first of its kind to have the ability to slow or halt the progression of keratoconus, and it also improves the vision in over 50% of the patients that are treated. In the past, patients with keratoconus would often have to have a full thickness corneal transplant. But now, corneal cross-linking may allow patients with this eye disease to live a normal life by slowing or stopping the progression of keratoconus. The key is to be diagnosed early and seek corneal cross-linking treatment as soon as possible before the keratoconus causes blinding irreversible effects.

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What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the round, oval-shaped cornea becomes thinner over time and develops a cone-like bulge, resulting in high levels of astigmatism (irregular curvature) and nearsightedness. It is estimated that keratoconus occurs in one out of every 1,000 people in the general population.

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“Dr. Kung and staff get 5 stars. From the moment I made my appointment, to my last follow-up visit; I experienced nothing but excellence. Dr. Kung explains everything in detail, makes sure you understand and encourages questions. I had bilateral cataract surgery with results above my expectations. I no longer wear glasses.

“I’ve had cataract surgery for both my eyes by Dr. Kung. It was the most amazing experience I’ve had. Dr. Kung himself is an absolutely brilliant doctor and surgeon. His staff sets the example by which excellence can be measured. The facility is beautiful and spotless and I highly recommend using Kung Eye for any ophthalmology needs. Thank you.

“I recently had corrective lens surgery performed by Dr. Kung with amazing results. I no longer require glasses for reading or distance (driving, tv viewing etc.). Dr. Kung and his staff are consistently friendly, helpful and provided excellent care pre-, during and post-surgery...best care anywhere. I would definitely recommend the Kung Eye Center for the treatment of any ophthalmological disorder.

“Dr. Kung and Dr. Chen are wonderful. Coming from 40 years of excellent care from my prior ophthalmologist, who just retired, I had high expectations, and those have been met! The office is well-run, and all the staff have been kind and competent. Thank you!

“Dear Kung is an absolute genius! In my opinion he is the best cataract surgeon in NY city.

“State of The Art Facility and doctors. Exceeded my expectations. Extremely careful regarding Covid19....Everybody wearing masks, etc. Thank you

“I had cataract surgery with the light adjustable lens. Surgery went very well. Staff is very professional, friendly and courteous. Highly recommend.

“Kung Eye Center is great! Dr. Kung, his doctors, technicians, and office staff run the eye center with precision, efficiency, intelligence and most of all, with caring and empathy. All medical facilities and offices should be run as well as Kung Eye Center. I am now on the road to the best vision I can have. I highly recommend Dr Kung and the Eye Center. You will be very pleased!

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How Does Collagen Cross-Linking Work?

Collagen is a structural protein that provides strength and firmness to the corneal tissue. Cross-linking works by forming new cross-links between collagen fibers, which are the natural “anchors” within the cornea. These anchors are responsible for preventing the weakened cornea from bulging out and becoming too steep or irregular. The addition of these cross-links acts like adding rungs on a ladder, strengthening the cornea and allowing it to focus light more efficiently and accurately.

How is Collagen Cross-Linking Performed?

After numbing drops are placed in each eye to ensure patient comfort, the Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) drops are then instilled in the eye for approximately 30-45 minutes. Once the corneal epithelium is fully saturated, the eye is illuminated by ultraviolet light in order to activate the bond between the collagen fibers. This process typically lasts between 5-30 minutes, depending on the specific patient’s condition.

What to Expect

In order to treat Keratoconus with cross-linking, the patient must have an initial consultation to determine if they are a good candidate for corneal cross-linking. The thickness of the cornea is a key factor on whether the patient is able to receive this treatment, and a corneal topography of the cornea will also be used to determine the severity of the condition.

What are the benefits of Collagen Cross-Linking?

  • Slows or stops the progression of keratoconus.
  • No incision, no injection, no stitches.
  • Only requires a single treatment.
  • Quick recovery time.

Contact Us Today

Kung Eye Center, with offices in East Brunswick, NJ, and Staten Island, NY offers corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus. For more information about collagen cross-linking or to schedule a consultation, call Kung Eye Center at (718) 948-8880 in our New York office or at (732) 257-4900 in our New Jersey office. Or, you may request an appointment using our online appointment request form.

Resources for Our Patients

Please follow these links to information for new patients, financing options, and insurance plan participation. Please do not hesitate to call our Staten Island or New Jersey offices with any questions you may have.