C3R Corneal Cross-Linking Ambala | Keratoconus Treatment

What is C3R / Corneal Cross-Linking?

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (C3R or CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the cornea by creating new bonds between collagen fibres using riboflavin (Vitamin B2) eye drops and controlled ultraviolet-A (UVA) light. It is the only proven treatment to halt the progression of keratoconus.

Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea progressively thins and bulges outward into a cone shape, causing progressive vision distortion, increasing myopia and astigmatism. Without treatment, it can lead to corneal scarring and the need for a transplant. C3R stops this progression permanently in the majority of cases.

⚡ Accelerated vs Standard C3R

We offer both standard Dresden protocol (30 min UV) and accelerated C3R (9 mW for 10 minutes). Accelerated C3R offers the same efficacy with a shorter treatment time, making it more comfortable for patients. Dr. V. K. Bansal will recommend the most appropriate protocol based on your corneal thickness and keratoconus stage.

Benefits of C3R

Only proven treatment to halt keratoconus progression
Prevents the need for corneal transplant in early to moderate cases
Safe, minimally invasive, done as day-care
Long-lasting — most patients need only one treatment
Can be combined with topography-guided PRK for vision improvement
Effective in all age groups including teenagers

The C3R Procedure

Pre-operative Assessment: Corneal topography, pachymetry and slit-lamp to confirm diagnosis and staging of keratoconus.
Epithelium Removal: The superficial corneal layer (epithelium) is gently removed from the central 8–9mm area using a sterile brush.
Riboflavin Drops: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) solution is applied to the cornea every 2 minutes for 30 minutes to saturate the stroma.
UV-A Irradiation: The cornea is exposed to controlled UV-A light (365nm) for 10–30 minutes depending on the protocol used.
Bandage Lens: A therapeutic contact lens is placed on the cornea for comfort while the epithelium heals over 3–5 days.
Follow-up: Daily antibiotic drops for 1 week. Topography is repeated at 3, 6 and 12 months to confirm stability.

Who Should Get C3R?

Confirmed diagnosis of progressive keratoconus (topographic progression over 6–12 months)
Minimum corneal thickness of 400 microns (at thinnest point)
Age 14–40 years (earlier treatment gives better long-term results)
Patients wishing to avoid corneal transplant
Post-LASIK ectasia (corneal weakening after laser surgery)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is C3R painful? ▾

During the procedure, topical anaesthetic drops keep the eye comfortable. After the procedure, patients may experience a gritty, irritating sensation for 3–5 days while the epithelium heals. We provide appropriate pain management with drops and oral analgesics.

Will C3R improve my vision? ▾

C3R is primarily designed to stabilise keratoconus, not necessarily improve vision. In some patients, there is mild improvement in topography and vision over months. For significant vision improvement, C3R can be combined with topography-guided PRK laser or patients can use contact lenses after stabilisation.

How soon will I know if C3R worked? ▾

The treatment effect is assessed at 6–12 months by repeat corneal topography. Stabilisation (no further steepening) is the goal. Most patients show excellent stability long-term.

Can both eyes be treated at the same time? ▾

We generally treat one eye at a time for safety and comfort, with the second eye done 4–6 weeks later once the first eye has healed and vision has returned to baseline.

Consult Our Expert Today

Book a consultation with Dr. VK Bansal at Bansal Eye Hospital, Ambala.

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📞 +91-9050636540

📱 +91-9812183285

🕐 Mon–Sat: 9 AM – 2:30 PM

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⚡ C3R – Corneal Cross-Linking