Treatment
CAIRS – Allogenic Corneal Rings (KeraNatural)
CAIRS uses sterilised human donor corneal rings (KeraNatural), implanted with a femtosecond laser, to reshape the cornea and improve vision in keratoconus — a minimally invasive, tissue-friendly alternative to corneal transplant.
Am I Suitable?
Suitability Criteria
CAIRS is suited to patients with keratoconus or corneal ectasia whose vision can no longer be fully corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. Suitability is confirmed after detailed corneal imaging and assessment.
Ideal Candidates
- Progressive or established keratoconus
Corneal bulging and irregular astigmatism reducing vision
- Contact-lens intolerance
Difficulty wearing the rigid or scleral lenses needed to see clearly
- Wishing to avoid or defer a transplant
A less invasive option than keratoplasty
- Post-refractive surgery ectasia
Corneal weakening after previous laser surgery
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
The effects of treatment in pregnancy are unknown
- Active eye infection or inflammation
Must be treated and settled before surgery
- Severe corneal scarring or very advanced ectasia
May require a corneal transplant instead — assessed individually
Assessment
How We Assess Your Suitability
Before recommending CAIRS, Miss Khanam carries out detailed corneal imaging — including topography, tomography and pachymetry — to map the shape and thickness of the cornea and confirm the diagnosis. This assessment determines whether CAIRS alone, CAIRS combined with cross-linking, or another treatment is most appropriate for you.
Quick Facts
Duration
Approximately 15 minutes per eye
Anaesthesia
Topical anaesthetic drops — no needle injection
Recovery
Most activities within 1-2 days; around a week off work; vision recovers over several weeks
Pain Level
Mild discomfort
Ready to Learn More?
Take our quick suitability quiz or book a consultation to discuss your options with your consultant.
Related
Understanding Your Condition
Learn more about the conditions this treatment addresses. Knowledge is the first step toward confident decision-making.
Take the Next Step
Book a consultation to discuss CAIRS – Allogenic Corneal Rings (KeraNatural) with your consultant. Transparent advice, no pressure, and a personalised plan for your vision.