Crosslinking – how long does the effect last?

Crosslinking is an effective method of treating keratoconus that can slow or stop the progression of the disease.
A frequently asked question from patients is: “How long does the effect of crosslinking last?”.

Immediate effect

Immediately after crosslinking, there is often a stabilization of the cornea.
The main purpose of the treatment is to strengthen the cornea and stabilize its shape.
Within the first weeks and months after the procedure, many patients notice an improvement in the corneal structure and a reduction in deformation.

Long-term stability

Studies and clinical observations have shown that the effect of crosslinking is long-lasting in most cases.
Many patients experience sustained stabilization of their cornea for five to ten years or longer.
Long-term studies report continued efficacy for up to 10 years after treatment, with most patients showing no further progression of keratoconus.

Factors influencing the long-term nature

The long-term success of crosslinking can depend on several factors:

• Age of the patient: Younger patients may have a higher risk of progressive disease, which requires regular follow-up checks.
• Severity of the keratoconus: Repeated treatment may be required for advanced stages.
• Compliance with postoperative instructions: Careful aftercare and avoidance of eye rubbing contribute to long-term stability.

Need for follow-up treatment

In some cases, a new crosslinking treatment may be necessary, especially if the keratoconus progresses despite the first treatment.
However, these cases are relatively rare and usually affect patients with very aggressive forms of the disease.

How long do Intacs work for keratoconus?

Intacs, also known as intrastromal corneal rings, are small, semi-circular plastic implants that are inserted into the cornea to change its shape and stabilize it.
These rings offer an alternative treatment option for patients with keratoconus.

After the implantation of Intacs, many patients notice an immediate improvement in their vision.
The rings work by flattening the irregular shape of the cornea and thus improving vision.
This initial effect can be very noticeable, especially in patients with mild to moderate keratoconus.

Long-term effectiveness

The long-term effectiveness of Intacs can vary.
In most cases, the rings remain effective for several years.
Studies have shown that in many cases the implants remain stable and improve vision for five years or more.
Some patients report a lasting effect and stabilization of corneal shape for more than a decade.

Need for adjustments or removal

In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the position of the Intacs or to remove them.
This may be necessary if the rings do not have the desired effect or if complications arise.
The procedure to remove or adjust the Intacs is relatively straightforward and usually has no long-term negative effects on the cornea.

The crosslinks of the cornea regenerate every six to seven years.
At the same time, it must be borne in mind that the natural crosslinks in the body increase with age.
Therefore, the likelihood of crosslinking having a lasting effect is higher at an advanced age.

Children are still at a very young age six to seven years after crosslinking treatment.
If the crosslinks have fully regenerated after this period, there is a higher probability that the disease will progress again.
In this case, renewed CXL treatment is sensible and effective.