A method and material for augmenting the shape and thickness of the
cornea in situ includes applying a
clear liquid collagen mixed with a customized crosslinker onto the augmentation surface or in a cavity (with or without a mold) and exposing the mixture to
UVA radiation in vivo. Application of UVA at varying dosages demonstrate progressive optically clear gelation and biomechanical adherence properties, and
in vitro optical properties (RI), mechanical suture strength and rheometric parameters are comparable to native corneal stromal tissue. Photochemical corneal collagen augmentation according to the invention makes it suitable to reconstruct and strengthen diseased and damaged eyes, ulcerated corneas, as well as provide a substrate for refractive onlay / inlay procedures and lamellar
transplantation.