The University of Houston College of Optometry is leading a new chapter in sight-saving care with the introduction of iLink, an FDA-approved corneal cross-linking procedure designed to slow or stop the progression of keratoconus, a disease that weakens the cornea and can lead to serious vision loss.
As one of the first academic institutions in Texas to offer iLink, the college recently performed its inaugural procedures at the University of Houston Eye Care Center, furthering its mission to bring the latest evidence-based treatments directly to patients.
“This procedure is about more than preserving vision—it’s about helping people regain confidence and peace of mind about their future,” said Michael Twa, Humana Endowed Dean's Chair in Optometry.
Keratoconus is a progressive and often misunderstood eye disease that causes the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye—to thin and bulge into a cone shape. This distortion makes it difficult to see clearly and can lead to glare, double vision, and frequent changes in prescription. If left untreated, one in five patients may eventually require a corneal transplant.
The iLink procedure works by applying specially formulated riboflavin (vitamin B₂) drops to the cornea and then activating them with ultraviolet light, strengthening the tissue and helping to prevent further deterioration. At UH Eye Care, cornea and contact lens specialists combine advanced technology with decades of expertise to ensure patients receive the highest standard of care before, during, and after treatment.
Seeing Hope Again
For 25-year-old Margarita Torres-Loredo, the iLink procedure brought relief and renewed confidence after years of uncertainty about her vision. After learning that her left eye was no longer eligible for the procedure, she decided to proceed with treatment on her right eye to preserve her remaining sight.
“Knowing that keratoconus can keep progressing, I wanted to do everything I could to stop it from getting worse,” she said. “The brief discomfort was worth it to preserve my vision. I just wish I could have done it for both eyes, but I’m grateful I was able to save my right.”
Her experience reflects the broader impact the college aims to create, combining compassionate care with clinical innovation to help patients maintain both vision and quality of life.
That same spirit of innovation drives the college’s research in corneal health. Faculty investigators are leading clinical studies that explore advanced imaging methods to detect keratoconus earlier—before permanent damage occurs.
“Our research and clinical innovations go hand in hand,” said Twa said. “When we find better ways to diagnose and treat diseases like keratoconus, we’re improving both science and people’s lives.”
Through innovations like iLink, the college continues to set the pace for patient-centered eye care and research excellence in Texas and beyond.
For more information about keratoconus studies or treatment options:
- Surya Duvvuri: sduvvuri@central.uh.edu
- Dr. Michael D. Twa: mdtwa@central.uh.edu