Stabilise Your Cornea & Protect Your Vision with Collagen Crosslinking (CXL)
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Collagen Crosslinking at a Glance
A simple overview of collagen crosslinking for keratoconus at Centre for Sight.
- Treatments offered
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL)
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support; financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
Over a decade of experience, advanced diagnostics and a dedicated keratoconus team
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Helps stop keratoconus from progressing
- Strengthens the cornea to protect your vision
- Reduces the chance of needing a corneal transplant
- Usually a one-off treatment
- Performed as a day procedure
- Focused on preserving long-term eye health
What Is Keratoconus Collagen Crosslinking?
Keratoconus causes the clear front surface of the eye (the cornea) to become thin and weak, gradually changing shape and affecting vision.
Collagen crosslinking (often called CXL) is a treatment designed to strengthen the cornea and slow or stop this process. It uses vitamin B2 eye drops (riboflavin) and a carefully controlled UV light to reinforce the natural fibres in the cornea.
The aim of collagen crosslinking is to protect your vision for the future. While it does not reverse keratoconus or remove the need for glasses or contact lenses, it helps prevent further worsening and preserves treatment options later in life.
Types of Collagen Crosslinking Treatment
1
Epithelium-Off Collagen Crosslinking (Standard CXL)
This is the most commonly used and well-researched form of collagen crosslinking. The thin outer layer of the cornea is gently removed to allow the treatment drops to work effectively. This approach provides the strongest corneal stabilisation and is often recommended when keratoconus is clearly progressing.
2
Epithelium-On Collagen Crosslinking (No-Touch CXL)
In this approach, the surface layer of the cornea is left in place, which can improve comfort and speed up recovery. However, it may not be suitable for everyone and is usually reserved for selected cases. Your consultant will advise which option is safest and most effective for your eyes.
Comparing Standard and No-Touch Collagen Crosslinking
Your consultant will always recommend the option that best suits your eye health and stage of keratoconus.
Procedure Type
How it works
Best For
Pros
Cons
Procedure Type
Standard CXL
How it works
Surface layer gently removed
Best For
Progressive keratoconus
Pros
Most proven results; long-term stability
Cons
Longer healing time
Procedure Type
No-Touch CXL
How it works
Surface layer left intact
Best For
Selected patients
Pros
Faster recovery; more comfortable
Cons
May be less effective
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Collagen Crosslinking?
Your consultant will explain what to expect and answer any questions before treatment.
Benefits of Corneal Collagen Cross-linking:
Helps prevent further vision changes
Strengthens and stabilises the cornea
Reduces the risk of advanced keratoconus
One treatment is often enough
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Temporary discomfort or light sensitivity
Blurred vision during healing
Mild corneal haze that usually clears
Small risk of infection (rare)
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Book a comprehensive eye examination to better understand your vision and available treatment options.
Am I Suitable for CXL?
Your consultant will carefully assess your eyes before recommending treatment.
You may be a candidate for Collagen Crosslinking if you:
Have been diagnosed with keratoconus
Show signs that it is getting worse
Are experiencing increasing vision changes
Want to protect your vision long-term
You may be less suitable if:
Your corneal thickness is too low or scarring is already severe
You have uncontrolled eye surface disease, inflammation or active infection
The ectasia has stabilised and no further progression is shown
Costs and Finance Options
Transparent pricing will be provided in your consultation. Costs vary depending on the number of segments, complexity of the cornea, and whether combined treatments (e.g., CXL) are required.
Flexible finance plans are available to spread the investment comfortably (subject to status and eligibility).
Additional Procedures
CAIRS - Keranatural
Bespoke Price
Per Eye
Consultant-led corneal surgery
Natural donor tissue segments (no synthetic implants)
Femtosecond laser–assisted placement
Preserves corneal tissue and structure
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
Collagen Crosslinking (CXL)
Bespoke Price
Per Eye
Consultant-led stabilisation treatment
Strengthens weakened corneal tissue
Day-case treatment
Outpatient treatment using riboflavin and UV light
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
Ferrara Rings
Bespoke Prices
Per Eye
Consultant-led refractive corneal procedure
Synthetic intrastromal ring segments
Improves corneal shape and visual function
Femtosecond laser–assisted implantation
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
1-year follow-up care
Flexible Finance Options
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our Consultants work with all the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
0% APR Financing
6-24 month finance options. Credit is provided subject to affordability, age and status. Minimum spend applies.
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, or Laser Lens Replacement
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.
FAQs
Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about corneal collagen cross-linking, helping you understand the treatment, recovery, and expected outcomes.
What is CXL and how does it work?
CXL uses riboflavin and UV light to create stronger bonds between collagen fibres in the cornea, making it more stable and reducing progression of keratoconus.
Will CXL improve my vision?
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to light activity within a week, but full stabilisation and vision improvement may take several months.
Why choose Centre for Sight for CXL?
Our corneal team are specialists in keratoconus, using advanced scanning, diagnostics and tailored treatment plans, providing world-class care and long-term support. Book a consultation.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.
Patient Success Stories
A first class experience
The whole process, start to finish, is first class. The facility at East Grinstead is superb and the staff were friendly and professional. The consultant, Saj Khan, is fantastic, a great communicator as well as being a leader in his work.
I had replacement lenses, after 3 months they became a little cloudy, distorting my vision. This is a known problem. I booked a consultation, within 2 hours I had been assessed and had laser treatment. No fuss, no problem, job done.
Laser Lens Replacement
Richard Black
Lens Replacement with Mr Shahnazaryan
The staff, experience and ultimately the outcome is why I have given this review a 5star. Mr David Shahnazaryans manner and expertise is outstanding. Whilst in the theatre Dr Lam kept me relaxed and comfortable with her kindness and fantastic professionalism. All the staff at CFS from the admin team, reception, clinic and theatre were excellent. I recommend them to everyone.
Laser Lens Replacement
Laser Lens Replacement
karen ryan
Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses
I had Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses for both eyes and the results are just amazing. The thorough testing and information I received pre and post operative was excellent. I highly recommend Mr Sheraz Daya who in my opinion is an “eye god” his lovely wife and highly professional team to anyone seeking this type of surgery.
Laser Lens Replacement
Susan Gifford
Professional Actor
5* Lens Replacement Procedure
I had tri focal lens replacement, both eyes done on the same day by Mr Daya. I wish I’d had it done sooner, it’s totally life changing. I researched the procedure for many months and selected Centre for Sight and I’m so glad I did. The whole process is first class from the very first contact, the initial tests could not be more thorough and the procedure is totally painless. The whole team could not be more helpful, I cannot praise them enough. I have perfect all round vision now so if you’re considering having the procedure done then this is definitely the place to choose you won’t regret it
Laser Lens Replacement
Jayne Chandler
Videos
About Centre for Sight
Centre for Sight Virtual Tour
Certifications & Recognition
The Power List 2026
Global Top 50: Mr. Sheraz Daya
Top 1% Surgeons
National recognition
CQC Accredited
Highest safety standards
5-Star Rated
Patient satisfaction