Holcomb C3-R® (collagen crosslinking with riboflavin) is a non-invasive procedure that has been proven to strengthen the weak corneal structure in keratoconus. (see publications/research section in right column).

This method works by increasing collagen cross-linking, which are the natural "anchors" within the cornea. These anchors are responsible for preventing the cornea from bulging out and becoming steep and irregular (which is the cause of keratoconus).

The figures above show the parallel corneal layers (white) and the collagen cross-linking (red) which are increased after Holcomb C3-R® treatment.

Holcomb C3-R® is a 30-minute, in-office procedure. During the treatment, custom-made riboflavin eyedrops are applied to the cornea, which is then activated by a special light. This is the process that has been shown in laboratory and clinical studies to increase the amount of collagen cross-linking in the cornea and strengthen the cornea. In published studies, such treatments were proven safe and effective in patients. 

Eye physicians in Germany performed the initial studies of collagen crosslinking to strengthen the cornea. They reported results of treatments done as long ago as 1998, so there is a good track record for this procedure. Links to these research publications can be found to the right side of this page. It is important to note in these studies that the proper dosages of the components are a very important part of the treatment. When used properly, there were no negative effects.

The figure above demonstrates almost 10 diopters of corneal flattening in one patient before (left) after this combined treatment (right).

Holcomb C3-R® treatments can also be combined with Intacs to flatten the keratoconus cone even more than with Intacs alone. In these cases, Holcomb C3-R® treatments stablize keratoconus from getting worse as well as help the Intacs reverse the keratoconus steepening that had already occurred up to the time of the treatment. Holcomb C3-R® is also showing promise in stabilizing patients after radial keratotomy.

RIGHT EYE
LEFT EYE
Natural progression of keratoconus in a patient’s eyes over 1.5 years.  Notice the dramatic lower cone steepening (red) and increased astigmatism over this short period of time.  Holcomb C3-R® can halt this progression and prevent these progressive distortions in vision.  Note:  not all keratoconus progresses this rapidly.

Dr. Brian is credited as the first doctor in the world to use Holcomb C3-R® treatments for Keratoconus as well as being the first doctor in the world to combine this treatment with Intacs®.

For more information on Holcomb C3-R®, please visit www.KeratoconusInserts.com.

Finally, you can overcome your Keratoconus.

COMPLIMENTARY CHART REVIEW FOR OUT-OF-TOWN PATIENTS

Many people who live out-of-town prefer Dr. Brian to do a complimentary chart review of their eye records prior to planning a trip to Beverly Hills. This way we can provide you with an idea of what you might be a candidate for, such as Holcomb C3-R®, Intacs®, etc.

Some people may ask you, “Why are you going to Beverly Hills to have your Keratoconus treated?” Although they are well-meaning, friends and family don't know what it’s like to live with this disease. People typically say back to friends and famiy, “I deserve the BEST and I want to go to the BEST doctor who has the MOST experience - the doctor who invented these procedures. These are my only two eyes and I want the best for them!”

A records review is very easy and the first step to better vision and peace-of-mind of not needing a cornea transplant. Here’s how to submit your records to Dr. Brian:

These are the 3 easy steps:

• Along with your last 2 or 3 eye exams, please be sure to include a color copy of your corneal mapping. Color corneal mapping is a very important tool, along with your exam history, to determine your candidacy. The last 2 years of your total eye history will be used to make this preliminary determination.
  
  
• Inside the envelope, please be sure to include a cover sheet with your name address, phone number and email address and the words, “Keratoconus Record Review”, so that we may optimize communication with you.
  
  
• Enclose with your letter a copy of your records.
  
  Mail to:
  Boxer Wachler Vision Institute

          Keratoconus Record Review
          465 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 902
          Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Or you can scan your records and email them to info@boxerwachler.com.

Dr. Brian will contact you to discuss the review.  If you have questions, please call us at 310-860-1900.