Corneal Transplant

There are two types of corneal transplants for treating keratoconus.

  • Deep lamellar keratoplasty (DLK) removes the diseased cornea but leaves behind the healthy posterior layer (endothelium). The diseased corneal layer is replaced by a healthy cornea from a donor's eye.
  • Full-thickness or penetrating Keratoplasty is performed if there has been damage to the posterior layer (hydrops) and the whole cornea is replaced with a donor cornea.

Both types of transplants are sutured into place. Corneal transplants for keratoconus is a very successful treatment with up to 96% survival at 5 years after surgery but the transplant may take 12-18 months to ‘bed in’.

Which procedure is right for you?

personalEYES will aim to ensure you have been given a clear explanation of your condition and treatment options.