Cohen Laser & Vision Center Offers Advanced, Incision-Free Treatment for Keratoconus

Cohen Laser & Vision Center is one of the first practices in South Florida to offer “Epi-On” corneal cross-linking, an advanced treatment for keratoconus and irregular astigmatism.

This technology is the safest, least invasive, most comfortable, and most effective treatment available for patients whose corneas are becoming progressively weaker and more distorted.

What Is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye, gradually thins and bulges outward into an irregular, cone-like shape. As the cornea changes shape, it creates what is known as irregular astigmatism, a type of distorted vision that is much harder to correct with standard glasses or contact lenses than the more common, regular astigmatism most people are familiar with. Left untreated, keratoconus can continue to progress over time, leading to increasingly blurred and distorted vision.

What Is Corneal Cross-Linking?

Corneal cross-linking is a treatment designed to strengthen the cornea and stop keratoconus from progressing. During the procedure, the doctor applies riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea and then activates them with a controlled dose of ultraviolet (UV) light. This creates new bonds, or “cross-links,” between the collagen fibers that make up the cornea, making it stiffer and more stable so it resists further bulging and thinning.

What Makes “Epi-On” Different?

Traditionally, corneal cross-linking has been performed using an “epi-off” technique, which requires removing the cornea's outer layer, called the epithelium, before applying the riboflavin drops. While effective, this step can make the procedure more uncomfortable and extend recovery time. “Epi-On” cross-linking leaves the epithelium intact, making the treatment less invasive and more comfortable for patients, while still effectively strengthening the cornea. Read more about it on the Glaukos website here. Cohen Laser & Vision Center is proud to be one of the first practices in South Florida to offer this advanced, patient-friendly approach.

Combining Epi-On with CTAK for Advanced Cases

For patients with more advanced keratoconus, Epi-On cross-linking can be combined with Corneal Tissue Addition Keratoplasty (CTAK), a procedure that adds precisely shaped donor corneal tissue to help reshape and reinforce a cornea that has already been significantly affected by the disease. By offering Epi-On cross-linking alongside CTAK and other advanced corneal techniques, Cohen Laser & Vision Center is able to provide comprehensive keratoconus and corneal management for patients at every stage of the disease, from early diagnosis to more advanced cases.

What to Expect

Epi-On cross-linking is quick and convenient. Treatment can take as little as 20 minutes per eye, and most patients are able to return to work the next day.

Is Epi-On Cross-Linking Right for You?

If you have keratoconus or irregular astigmatism, call Cohen Laser & Vision Center or fill out our online appointment form today. We would love to evaluate your situation and see if this advanced, comfortable treatment option is right for you.