UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

Hi Everyone,
Been a long time since I've posted but I am in need of some advice please.
I have been put on the waiting list for a corneal transplant and cataract operation on my left eye and would be interested to know if anyone has had this done and what happens once it's been done.
Its a no brainer as the alernative is losing my sight completely.
Look forward to answers.
Lesley.

Hi Lesley and welcome back.
So is this a regraft or the first time you'll be having a transplant? I've had cataracts removed from eyes that already had transplants. And there's a post about this just a few below this from Carmel. I don't remember seeing anyone on the forum who has had the two procedures together, but I know it's an option and it certainly makes sense. You're likely to feel the benefits of the cataract op almost straightaway with clearer vision. Improvements in vision with the transplant usually take months though, like everything KC, everyone is different. All the very best with it, and do let us know how it goes.

Hi, I had the same thing done to my left eye at the end of August, it was a graft redo, the old graft had worn out after 40 years and my sight had almost gone. It went very well and my vision had improved almost straight away so I'd say it's a good thing. I have a cataract in my right eye and had the graft redo on that eye done a year ago, I only wish they'd done the cataract at the same time, vision even with a scleral lens isn't great, it's very sepia and gets quite misty, whereas the left eye is a lot sharper. Good luck with it, I hope it goes well

I had a 3rd graft (DMEK) & cataract done at the same time.
The cataract was fine

Sorry for the delay in checking this.
This is a first graft after managing for 40+ years without one. I'm not too sure what to expect really even though i have read the bumpf given to me. I have a pre op assessment on the 20th of this month but no idea when the operation will take place.
Thank you for taking the time to reply.

I may be late to the party here as you are perhaps already "in progress". I was scheduled to have the two done together until the day of the operation. Part of the logic for me was just one recovery to go through. However, after a review wih my consultant and discussion, it was decided it would be better to do them separately, mainly because a much better measurement could be taken after the graft had settled to fit the best lens to optimise the vision. It was just 12 weeks between the two ops, so all the sutures were still in place and on the usual steroids. The cataract recovery was a breeze and the outcome has meant I can now read and drive without spectacles or lenses.

Thank you for the replies they are very helpful.
I am still waiting to have the operation but have yet another apointment next month to have the biometric measurements done so fingers crossed it won't be long after that. I have to admit I'm not looking forward to it, no pun intended, as I hate anything to do with eyes, I can manage mine but anyone elses no thanks.
Thanks again.
Lesley.

I hope your next appointment is successfully Lesley. Please do keep us posted and I have all y fingers and toes crossed