A Keraring implant with the femtosecond laser can stall this progressive protuberance of the cornea. Generally, the implants stabilise the cornea and thereby also stabilise the vision. An improved adaptation of glasses or contact lenses is thus possible.
Are you suffering from keratoconus and are you considering a long-term solution? We will provide you with an overview of the clinical picture and the suitable treatment method.
Corneal cross‑linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to halt the progression of keratoconus and other corneal ectasias. By applying riboflavin (vitamin B₂) eye drops to the cornea and activating them with ultraviolet‑A (UV‑A) light, this treatment reinforces and stiffens the corneal collagen fibers, creating new chemical bonds that help stabilise the cornea’s structure and prevent further bulging or thinning.
Why it matters: Stabilising the cornea early can reduce the risk of further vision deterioration and potentially delay or avoid the need for more invasive interventions like corneal transplants
KeraNatural (also known as CAIRS—Corneal Allograft Intrastromal Ring Segments) uses donor corneal tissue (allografts) fashioned into ring or arc segments and implanted within the corneal stroma.
These sterile allograft ring segments are precisely customised using advanced corneal topography, and are available in various sizes (e.g. 6 mm or 8 mm) and thicknesses to match each eye’s unique topography.
This approach reshapes and stabilises the cornea by flattening its irregular curvature, improving visual acuity while preserving natural tissue. It’s less invasive than full transplants and allows for future treatments if needed.
KeraNatural CAIRS, Synthetic Ring Segments (such as Intacs, Ferrara or Keraring), and Corneal Transplantation. A quick comparison to help you see which option may suit your cornea, your lifestyle, and your recovery goals.
Our advanced London Keratoconus centre offers expert care from leading surgeons using the latest technology for exceptional visual outcomes.
We provide immediate access to advanced Keratoconus surgery, no delays, fast turnaround and expert care with free assessment when you need it most.
We use the latest corneal treatment including LASIK femtosecond laser and advanced ring technology that will last a lifetime in your eye.
EuroEyes London offers Keratoconus surgery on both eyes in a single session, reducing recovery time, multiple visits, and overall disruption.
The word Keratoconus derives from two Greek words: “kerato”, which means cornea, and “conus”, which means cone. Keratoconus is a genetically inherited disease that effects the normal form of the corneal shape, causing it obtain a cone-like shape–the reason for the reduced vision.
The Keraring is mostly implemented when the disease has reached its advanced stages and contact lenses have become intolerable, or the corneal shape too irregular. The Keraring can stall this progressive curving of the cornea, and thereby indefinitely postpone the need for a corneal transplantation.
At EuroEyes London, Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is a highly effective procedure used to slow or stop the progression of keratoconus. This minimally invasive treatment works by strengthening the corneal tissue to maintain its shape and integrity. During the procedure, riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops are applied to the cornea, which is then exposed to a controlled beam of ultraviolet (UV) light. This process triggers the development of new cross-links between collagen fibres in the cornea, helping to stabilise and reinforce its structure—preventing further thinning or bulging.
After Corneal Cross-Linking at EuroEyes London, a protective contact lens is placed on the treated eye to aid healing and minimise discomfort. It’s normal to experience mild irritation or light sensitivity during the first few days. Over the following weeks and months, visual clarity gradually improves as the cornea stabilises. While the treatment does not reverse keratoconus, it is highly effective at halting its progression—helping to preserve long-term vision and reduce the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
First, a tunnel is prepared for the ring to be inserted into. EuroEyes uses the femtosecond laser for this–just like in the Femto LASIK treatment–which makes the most precise incisions within 6 seconds.
The ring is then inserted carefully into this tunnel, and carefully positioned.
The rings “tighten” the corneal cone and thereby create a more regular corneal surface.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty with night driving. It typically develops in teenagers and young adults, worsening over time if untreated. At EuroEyes London, we offer advanced treatments to slow progression and improve vision clarity.
The treatment depends on the severity of the condition:
Yes, in mild to moderate cases, specialty contact lenses, scleral lenses, and corneal cross-linking (CXL) can help stabilise vision and prevent progression. However, in advanced stages, surgical options such as ICRS implants or corneal transplants may be required.
The cost varies based on the treatment:\n – Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): From £2,000 per eye\n – Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS): From £2,500 per eye\n – Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL): From £3,500 per eye\n – Corneal Transplant (if required): Pricing upon consultation. At our London clinic, we offer a range of finance options to help make treatment more accessible. Subject to affordability, age and status, and minimum spend applies
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is designed to halt the progression of keratoconus permanently, but it does not reverse existing damage. Additional treatments like ICRS implants or ICLs can further enhance vision clarity. Our London-based specialists will guide you through the best long-term solution for your eyes.
Traditional LASIK is not recommended for keratoconus as it can further weaken the cornea. However, alternative options such as Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) with PRK or Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) may be considered in certain cases. At EuroEyes London, we offer specialist consultations to determine the safest and most effective treatment for keratoconus patients.
