London clinic advise and question on CXL

[NorthernStar]

Hi
Newly diaganosed with KC, my left eye is at the early stages and my right eye is better, but started to show signs two. My astigmatism is -4.25 on the left eye and -3.25 on the right. Questons:

1) Should i get both eyes done or wait for the right eye (i am 31)
2) If doing both, how far apart should i get them done
3) Should I wait for nhs appointment at moorfield (10-15 weeks) or go private. I have medical insurance which should thankfully cover it, but dont want to end up getting stuff done that i dont need
4) Any recommendations for private clinics in london?

[CrippsCorner]

Hi there.

1) I got my worst eye done back in the summer. I have been debating ever since whether to get the other one done as well... I don't think there's a right answer. I asked the consultant what he would do, and he said, if it were his son in this situation, he'd get it done. To me, that was my answer. I'm very anxious about it this time, but I'm booked in for next month.

2) It takes around 3 months before you can start the process of getting your glasses/contacts adjusted again, so that of seems the norm. Some people get them done at the same time, but as yours isn't too bad, you'll probably be alright leaving it a while. Have you had scans that show progression?

3) I had no choice here so can't really help. In Essex there is no funding, so I had to stump up the cash.

4) Never been to any eye hospitals in London but I'm sure others will recommend soon.

Hope that helps, any more questions just fire away. I'm 30 btw.

[NorthernStar]

Thanks for the replies.

I haven't had scans for progression. Had astigmatism since age 24 and has been stable at R-1.5 L-1.75. Then last week on a routine eye check it had gone to R-3.25 and L-4.25.

Had one scan with some other numbers - K number??? Which was R46 L 48.

Should I have another scan before deciding?

[CrippsCorner]

Okay I was 45 & 46 so pretty similar. I don't think you'll be allowed to apply for NHS funding without evidence of 6 months worth of progression... tbh I wish I did mine sooner before it got worse. It's tough, I'm not going to lie I go round and round in my head trying to think about the best option. Have you got a consultant that knows about keratoconus you can discuss with?

[NorthernStar]

Yeah I saw a consultant privately yesterday at moor field and he said to go for it.

[Prism]

Astigmatism at 24? Diagnosed KC at 31? Isn't that just slow progression/missed diagnosis?