Epioxa: Epithelium-On Cross-Linking
Epioxa: Epithelium-On Cross-Linking
Protect your vision at South Florida’s only provider of Epioxa™—the first and only non-invasive, incision-free treatment approved by the FDA to halt the progression of Keratoconus.
The Future of Keratoconus Care is Here
For years, the gold standard for stopping Keratoconus was “epithelium-off” cross-linking—a procedure that required surgically removing the front layer of the cornea. While effective, it meant a painful recovery and a higher risk of complications.
Today, Carrie A. Palmer, M.D. is proud to bring a revolutionary advancement to the Treasure Coast. As the first provider in South Florida to offer the Epioxa™ (Epi-On iLink™), we can now strengthen your cornea and stabilize your vision without a single incision or surgical scrape.
The Future of Keratoconus Care is Here
Epioxa is the next generation of corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL). It is designed to stiffen and strengthen a cornea weakened by Keratoconus, preventing the eye from bulging into a cone shape that causes vision loss.
How the Technology Works
- Proprietary Riboflavin: We apply a specialized Vitamin B2 formula (Epioxa) that is uniquely engineered to soak through the corneal surface without needing to remove the protective outer layer (the epithelium).
- The Boost Goggles: To maximize the effect, patients wear specialized goggles that deliver supplemental oxygen to the eye’s surface.
- UV-A Activation: A precise UV-A light is applied to the eye. The interaction between the oxygen, riboflavin, and light creates new “cross-links” between corneal collagen fibers, acting like invisible biological staples to reinforce the eye.
Epi-On vs. Traditional Cross-Linking
For years, the gold standard for stopping Keratoconus was “epithelium-off” cross-linking—a procedure that required surgically removing the front layer of the cornea. While effective, it meant a painful recovery and a higher risk of complications.
Today, Carrie A. Palmer, M.D. is proud to bring a revolutionary advancement to the Treasure Coast. As the only provider in South Florida currently offering the Epioxa™ (Epi-On iLink™), we can now strengthen your cornea and stabilize your vision without a single incision or surgical scrape.
| Feature | Traditional (Epi-Off) | Epioxa (Epi-On) |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Incision | Yes (scraping of cornea) | No (incision-free) |
| Pain Level | Significant (3-5 days) | Minimal to None |
| Recovery Time | 1-2 Weeks | 24-48 hours |
| Infection Risk | Higher (due to open wound) | Significantly lower |
| South Florida Availability | Multiple Providers | Dr. Palmer |
Who Is a Candidate for Epioxa?
This treatment is specifically FDA-approved for patients with progressive Keratoconus. Because Dr. Palmer is a board-certified ophthalmologist with deep expertise in corneal disorders, she can determine if your condition is at the right stage for this technology.
Reasons You May Benefit From Epioxa
- You have been diagnosed with Keratoconus or corneal ectasia.
- Your vision is becoming increasingly blurred or distorted.
- You want to avoid the pain and downtime of traditional “epi-off” surgery.
- You are looking to stabilize your vision to prevent the future need for a corneal transplant.
Experience South Florida’s Leading Eye Care
When it comes to your sight, experience matters. Dr. Carrie Palmer is at the forefront of ophthalmic technology, ensuring that patients in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and across South Florida have access to the most advanced medical treatments available.
By choosing Treasure Coast Eye Specialists, you are choosing a practice that prioritizes patient comfort and long-term visual outcomes.
Hear From Our Patients
Save Your Sight with the Region’s Only Epi-On Specialist
Ready for Clearer Vision? Start Today.
Don’t wait for Keratoconus to progress. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Carrie Palmer today and see if the breakthrough Epioxa treatment is right for you.
