iLink (Avedro) corneal cross-linking costs from £3,500 per eye as a self-pay procedure in the UK in 2026 at our partner clinics. iLink is the branded, clinically validated epithelium-off CXL system from Glaukos — the same protocol used in the trials that gained regulatory approval — designed to halt the progression of keratoconus. The price is all-inclusive of consultation, corneal scans, the treatment, the branded riboflavin and UV system, a bandage contact lens, post-operative drops and aftercare reviews.
What is iLink corneal cross-linking?
Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is the only treatment proven to stop keratoconus from getting worse. Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge into an irregular cone shape, distorting vision. Cross-linking works by creating new molecular bonds within the cornea, stiffening and stabilising it so it no longer continues to deform.
iLink is the branded epithelium-off ("epi-off") cross-linking system developed by Avedro, now part of Glaukos. It combines a specific pharmaceutical-grade riboflavin (vitamin B2) formulation with a precisely calibrated UV-A delivery system (the KXL device). Because it uses the exact riboflavin and energy settings validated in the approval studies, iLink is regarded as the reference standard for epi-off cross-linking. The aim is not to improve vision but to preserve the vision you have and avoid the need for a corneal transplant later in life.
Cross-linking options compared
There are several cross-linking protocols. The right one depends on your corneal thickness, how fast the keratoconus is progressing and your surgeon's assessment.
Compare full pricing on our corneal cross-linking cost page. If your keratoconus is more advanced, your surgeon may discuss vision-restoring options such as Intacs corneal rings, CAIRS rings or, in selected cases, a DALK corneal transplant. Many patients also benefit from scleral lens fitting to sharpen vision after cross-linking.
What happens during iLink cross-linking
iLink epi-off cross-linking is a day-case procedure performed under local anaesthetic eye drops. You stay awake and feel no pain. The whole appointment takes around 60–90 minutes per eye.
- Numbing drops are applied and the eye is cleaned.
- The thin surface layer (epithelium) is gently removed so the riboflavin can penetrate the cornea.
- iLink riboflavin drops are applied for a period to saturate the cornea.
- The cornea is exposed to a precisely controlled dose of UV-A light using the KXL system, activating the cross-linking reaction.
- A soft bandage contact lens is placed to protect the surface while it heals, and you go home the same day.
Has your keratoconus been getting worse? Early cross-linking gives the best chance of preserving your vision. A consultation includes corneal scans to confirm whether you need treatment now.
Book a keratoconus assessmentRecovery week-by-week
Because the epithelium is removed, the first few days involve some discomfort while the surface heals — similar to surface laser treatments. Vision is blurry at first and may take several months to fully stabilise.
Days 1–3
Gritty, watery, light-sensitive eye under the bandage lens. Rest, drops and pain relief keep it comfortable. Vision is hazy.
Days 4–5
The surface has healed and the bandage lens is removed at review. Comfort improves significantly.
Weeks 1–4
Vision gradually clears. Anti-inflammatory drops continue. Most return to normal activities; avoid eye rubbing and swimming.
Months 1–6
The cornea stabilises. Follow-up scans confirm the keratoconus has stopped progressing. Glasses or scleral lenses may be updated.
Cost & what's included
iLink pricing at our partner clinics is all-inclusive:
- Self-pay: from £3,500 per eye for the branded iLink epi-off protocol, including consultation, scans, the treatment, riboflavin and UV system, bandage lens, drops and aftercare.
- Insurance: progressive keratoconus is a medical condition, so cross-linking may be covered by private medical insurance — we help with authorisation.
- Finance: 0% options available to spread the cost.
See how iLink compares with other protocols on our corneal cross-linking cost and iontophoresis CXL cost pages.