Corneal Transplant Surgery in London
When keratoconus progresses beyond other treatment options, corneal transplantation offers the opportunity to restore clarity and comfort with healthy donor tissue.
What is Corneal Transplant Surgery?
Corneal transplant surgery replaces diseased or structurally compromised corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue. It is typically used for advanced cases of keratoconus where the cornea is too thin, scarred, or steep for other vision correction options.
Types of Transplant Procedures:
- Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): A partial-thickness transplant that preserves the innermost corneal layers, reducing the risk of graft rejection and maintaining the eye’s natural structure.
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): A full-thickness transplant used when all corneal layers are damaged. This is recommended in cases involving inner corneal scarring or endothelial dysfunction.
Benefits of Corneal Transplant Surgery:
- Restored Vision: Replaces damaged corneal tissue to improve clarity and focus.
- Reduced Discomfort: Relieves pain, irritation, or sensitivity caused by scarring or thinning.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Enables patients to return to work, reading, and driving.
- Long-Term Stability: Offers a durable solution for structurally unstable corneas.
- High Success Rates: Most patients experience significant improvement in vision post-surgery.
In-depth eye assessment and surgical planning
Donor tissue matching and preparation
Surgical transplantation using DALK or PK techniques
Postoperative monitoring and medication
Long-term follow-up and possible suture removal
Is Your Keratoconus Now Affecting Your Daily Function?
You might be ready for a corneal transplant if:
- You’ve tried other treatments and still have poor vision
- Your cornea is severely scarred or thin
- Contact lenses are no longer wearable or effective
- You’re experiencing increased light sensitivity or eye discomfort
- Your NHS doctor said there are limited or no further options
Download The Keratoconus Information Pack
Years helping people see better
Patients treated
Years of experience for our lead surgeon
Who is a Candidate for Corneal Transplant Surgery?
| Criteria | Corneal Transplant |
|---|---|
| Diagnosed with advanced keratoconus | ✅ |
| Vision is not correctable with glasses or lenses | ✅ |
| Significant corneal thinning or scarring | ✅ |
| Other treatments (e.g. CXL, rings) are no longer effective | ✅ |
| Medically fit for eye surgery | ✅ |
International Patients
We welcome international patients seeking advanced keratoconus care. Our expert team can coordinate evaluations, surgery, and follow-ups to suit your travel schedule, providing a smooth treatment experience while you’re in London.
How Much Does Corneal Transplant Surgery Cost?
Our team provides transparent pricing with a detailed surgical and aftercare plan following consultation and scan analysis.
Comprehensive
Eligibility
Assessment
Flexible
Installments
0% Interest
Your Patient Journey
At Harley Street Eye Centre in London, your care is consultant-led and tailored to your vision, lifestyle and goals. From first enquiry through consultation, diagnosis and treatment, we explain every step in plain language and agree a plan together. Our clinic at 22a Harley Street combines advanced diagnostics and modern laser/surgical technology with clear aftercare and long-term monitoring where needed (e.g., keratoconus, glaucoma, retina). Use the tabs to see what happens at each stage — from booking to recovery — and what to expect on the day. When you’re ready, book a consultation or call our team.
We’re here to listen first. Tell us what’s bothering you, how it affects your day, and what you’d like to achieve. Our team will guide you to the most suitable consultant and appointment type at Harley Street Eye Centre.
- Share your symptoms, history and goals
- Quick suitability check for key treatments
- Advice on records to bring (glasses Rx, letters, scans)
- Appointment scheduled at a convenient time
- Clear confirmation with directions and next steps
We’re excited to see you at your appointment. Ask us anything — about treatments, the clinic, timings or fees. Our goal is to help you regain your independence and live life free from visual limitations.
- Discuss your eye health goals and lifestyle needs
- Full eye examination by a consultant ophthalmologist
- Vision testing and treatment eligibility assessment
- Diagnostic scans if required (e.g., OCT, topography, biometry)
- Start a personalised treatment plan and timeline
After reviewing your results, your consultant explains the findings in plain language and outlines safe, evidence-based options. You’ll make an informed decision together.
- Clear explanation of your diagnosis and prognosis
- Side-by-side comparison of suitable treatments (incl. non-surgical)
- Benefits, risks and expected recovery times discussed
- Transparent pricing and payment options explainedWritten summary of the agreed plan
You’ll be welcomed by our clinical team, who will conduct final checks and ensure your comfort throughout. Most procedures are quick with minimal downtime.
- Arrival, consent review and last-minute questions answered
- Pre-op measurements confirmed; anaesthetic drops if needed
- Consultant-delivered procedure using modern technology
- Immediate post-op checks and tailored aftercare instructions
- Safe journey-home guidance and contact details for support
Good outcomes rely on good aftercare. We’ll review your progress, fine-tune any medications as needed, and be available to provide advice if you require it between visits.
- Scheduled follow-ups to monitor healing and vision
- Symptom checklist and when to get in touch
- Medication/use of drops reviewed and adjusted
- Activity guidance (work, driving, exercise, screen time)
- Direct access to our team for reassurance and queries