Understanding the Difference Between CAIRS and Corneal Collagen Crosslinking for Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea — the clear front window of the eye — becomes thinner and bulges into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape can cause blurred vision, glare, and distortion that glasses or soft contact lenses cannot fully correct. Fortunately, advances in corneal surgery have led to several treatment options for keratoconus, including Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments (CAIRS) and corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL).
If you’ve been researching keratoconus treatment in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or South East Queensland, it’s important to understand how these two procedures differ — and how they can sometimes work together.
What is Corneal Collagen Crosslinking (CXL)?
Corneal collagen crosslinking is designed to stabilize the cornea and prevent further progression of keratoconus. It works by applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea and then activating them with ultraviolet (UV) light. This process strengthens the collagen fibres within the cornea, helping it resist further bulging or distortion.
In simple terms, crosslinking stops keratoconus from getting worse, but it does not typically improve vision. Patients may still require glasses or rigid contact lenses to achieve their best visual acuity after the procedure.
What is CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments)?
CAIRS, or Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments, is a newer and more biologically compatible surgical technique for visual rehabilitation in keratoconus. Instead of inserting synthetic plastic rings (as in traditional Intacs), CAIRS uses donor corneal tissue shaped into tiny segments that are implanted into the patient’s cornea.
These tissue segments act as natural scaffolds, reshaping and regularising the cornea to improve the way light focuses on the retina. The result is often a smoother corneal surface and clearer vision, reducing irregular astigmatism and improving quality of sight.
In essence:
Crosslinking = Stabilisation, strengthening existing tissue and maintaining current vision but not improving vision.
CAIRS = Improving vision, adding tissue but not stabilising the disease.
CAIRS +CROSSLINKING - better vision and stable keratoconus
Can CAIRS and Crosslinking Be Combined?
Yes, these two treatments can be synergistic. In some cases, CAIRS can be performed first to improve the shape and visual function of the cornea, followed by corneal collagen crosslinking to lock in that improved shape and provide long-term stability.
However, it’s generally preferable to perform CAIRS before crosslinking, because once the cornea has been crosslinked, it becomes stiffer and more difficult to reshape effectively.
So, if a patient has already had crosslinking, CAIRS can still help — but the improvement in corneal shape and vision may be less dramatic.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The ideal approach depends on the stage of your keratoconus, your visual needs, and whether you’ve already had any previous treatments.
Early keratoconus may be best treated with crosslinking alone to stop progression.
More advanced keratoconus, or patients struggling with poor vision despite rigid lenses, may benefit from CAIRS for visual rehabilitation — possibly followed by crosslinking for long-term stability.
Expert Keratoconus Care in Brisbane, the Gold Coast & South East Queensland
If you’re searching for keratoconus treatment in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or South East Queensland, our ophthalmology team provides the latest surgical options including CAIRS surgery and corneal collagen crosslinking.
We will carefully assess your corneal shape, thickness, and vision to determine the most effective treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Book an appointment today to learn whether CAIRS, corneal collagen crosslinking, or a combination of both is right for you.
Helping patients across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and South East Queensland see more clearly — one cornea at a time.