In short, the answer is yes.
Collagen cross-linking (CXL) activates collagen fibres in the cornea to cross-link and thereby strengthening the cornea. Laser vision correction aside, CXL is a treatment option for certain progressing cornea weaknesses like keratoconus, keratopathy or keratitis. In these conditions, the cornea is constantly changing in shape or structure resulting in vision deterioration. Potentially, it halts the rapid advancement of such degeneration.
Today, CXL is usually performed together with LASIK as a prophylactic treatment. The aim is to minimise the risk of corneal ectasia, a rare condition whereby the cornea loses its ability to maintain structural integrity thereafter.
One may opt to go for CXL only when there is clinical evidence of worsening in vision due to post-LASIK ectasia. However, by then, it serves to prevent further progression and stabilise the vision. The consequent improvement in vision is unknown.
Though to be fair to LASIK, post-surgical ectasia is rare. It is therefore important to screen for risk factors and understand the options available to you before LASIK. Whether CXL is optional or compulsory at the point of surgery, it is dependent on the eye profile.
Certainly, adding on CXL during LASIK gives the maximum benefit compared to it being carried out as a separate procedure some time after LASIK. In addition to refractive stability, from the investment point of view, you are saving time time to make another trip for a second procedure.
