Restore Clear Vision with Expert Corneal Transplant Surgery
When your cornea is damaged or cloudy, our specialist grafting procedures offer a pathway back to sharper, more comfortable sight. At Centre for Sight, you’ll receive consultant-led surgery, advanced techniques and long-term monitoring tailored for your needs.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Corneal Transplant Surgery at a Glance
Quick facts about corneal transplant surgery to help you understand the basics
- Treatments offered
Corneal Transplant (partial or full-thickness donor graft)
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support; financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
Internationally-recognised corneal experts, advanced grafting techniques and personalised care.
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Restore clearer vision
- Relieve discomfort and pain
- High success rates
- Advanced surgical techniques
- Long-term visual improvement
What is a Corneal Transplant?
A corneal transplant (also known as keratoplasty or a corneal graft) involves replacing all or part of a damaged or cloudy cornea with healthy donor tissue, restoring clarity, shape and visual comfort.
Damage to the cornea may arise from thinning conditions (e.g., keratoconus), scarring from trauma or infection, or endothelial failure (such as Fuchs Endothelial Dystrophy) which causes swelling and loss of transparency.
Our corneal transplant options at Centre for Sight range from partial-thickness grafts (replacing the affected layer) to full-thickness grafts when necessary, enabling us to match the surgical approach to your condition.
Types of Transplantation Performed at Centre for Sight
1
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
Partial-thickness graft replacing front and middle corneal layers, preserving your own endothelial cells; often used in keratoconus.
2
Automated Lamellar Therapeutic Keratoplasty (ALTK)
A variation replacing a thin layer of front cornea, ideal for surface-scarring or certain dystrophies with quicker visual recovery.
3
Femtosecond Laser Deep Lamellar Keratoplasty (FSDALK)
Uses femtosecond-laser technology for ultra-precise partial-thickness grafts; further enhances precision and reproducibility.
4
Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DSAEK)
Minimally invasive graft replacing only the innermost layer (endothelium) through a small incision — ideal for endothelial disorders like Fuchs.
5
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
Full-thickness corneal graft used when all layers are involved (e.g., trauma, failed previous grafts).
Comparing Transplantation Procedures
Please note that your consultant will recommend the most suitable treatment option tailored to your specific case.
Procedure Type
How it works
Best For
Pros
Cons
Procedure Type
DALK
How it works
Front/middle layers replaced; patient’s own endothelium preserved
Best For
Keratoconus, surface scarring
Pros
Lower rejection risk; good structural integrity
Cons
Technically more complex; may not address posterior layer
Procedure Type
DSEK / DSAEK
How it works
Inner (endothelial) layer replaced via small incision
Best For
Endothelial failure (e.g., Fuchs)
Pros
Less invasive; faster recovery than full-thickness
Cons
Doesn’t address anterior scarring; technical skills required
Procedure Type
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
How it works
Full-thickness corneal graft
Best For
Multi-layer damage, trauma, graft failure
Pros
Comprehensive solution for advanced/severe cases
Cons
Longer recovery; higher risk of complications
What are the Benefits and Risks of Corneal Transplant Surgery?
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
Benefits (vary by procedure):
Improved vision clarity
Corneal transplant surgery can restore clearer vision by replacing damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue.
Relief from discomfort and irritation
Relief from discomfort and irritation
Enhanced visual quality and daily function
Successful transplantation may reduce visual distortion and help patients return to everyday activities such as reading, driving or working.
Advanced surgical techniques
Modern procedures, including partial-thickness corneal transplants, allow surgeons to replace only the affected layers of the cornea, which may support improved outcomes and long-term graft survival.
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Graft rejection or failure
As with any transplant procedure, the body may occasionally reject donor tissue, although careful monitoring and treatment can often manage this.
Infection or inflammation
There is a small risk of infection or inflammation following surgery.
Elevated intraocular pressure
Some patients may develop increased eye pressure after surgery, which may require monitoring or treatment.
Suture-related complications
Stitches used during the procedure can sometimes cause irritation or require adjustment during follow-up care.
Gradual visual recovery
Vision often improves gradually over several months as the eye heals, and final outcomes may vary depending on the underlying condition being treated.
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to determine your suitability for a corneal transplant.
Am I Suitable for Corneal Transplant Surgery?
Your consultant will discuss the potential suitability for corneal transplant surgery with you and assess whether the procedure is appropriate for your individual eye condition.
You may be considered for a corneal transplant if you:
Have corneal disease or damage affecting vision
Conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, corneal dystrophies, infection, or injury may cause the cornea to become cloudy or irregular, reducing visual clarity.
Have vision that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or contact lenses
When other treatments no longer provide clear or comfortable vision, transplant surgery may be considered.
Have structural damage to the cornea
Significant thinning, scarring or swelling of the cornea may require surgical replacement of the affected tissue.
Have otherwise healthy eye structures
The retina, optic nerve and other parts of the eye should generally be healthy enough to support visual recovery after surgery.
Some factors may affect suitability for corneal transplant surgery, including severe retinal disease, uncontrolled glaucoma, ongoing infection, or conditions that may increase the risk of graft rejection.
A detailed consultation at Centre for Sight will allow your specialist to examine your eyes, review your medical history and determine whether corneal transplant surgery is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
Flexible Finance Options
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our Consultants work with all the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
Interest Free Finance
6-24 month finance options subject to affordability, age & status
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.
FAQs
Below are answers to common questions about corneal transplant surgery including what to expect during your recovery.
Who may need a corneal transplant?
Corneal transplant surgery may be recommended for people whose cornea has become scarred, swollen, irregular or cloudy due to conditions such as corneal dystrophies, injury, infection, or thinning disorders. It is usually considered when vision cannot be improved with glasses, contact lenses or other treatments.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by graft type; partial-thickness grafts often offer faster visual stabilisation, while full-thickness (PK) may take longer (many months) for final outcome.
Will I still need glasses or contact lenses afterward?
Many patients achieve significantly improved vision, but some may still need glasses or contact lenses depending on the graft outcome and individual factors.
How successful is corneal transplant surgery?
Corneal transplantation is one of the most successful transplant procedures in medicine. Many patients experience significant improvements in vision and comfort following surgery, although outcomes can vary depending on the underlying condition being treated.
Corneal Transplant Surgery Aftercare
You can download our Corneal Transplant Aftercare Booklet here for detailed guidance on recovery, medications, follow-up appointments and how to care for your eyes after surgery.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.
Patient Success Stories
A first class experience
The whole process, start to finish, is first class. The facility at East Grinstead is superb and the staff were friendly and professional. The consultant, Saj Khan, is fantastic, a great communicator as well as being a leader in his work.
I had replacement lenses, after 3 months they became a little cloudy, distorting my vision. This is a known problem. I booked a consultation, within 2 hours I had been assessed and had laser treatment. No fuss, no problem, job done.
Laser Lens Replacement
Richard Black
Lens Replacement with Mr Shahnazaryan
The staff, experience and ultimately the outcome is why I have given this review a 5star. Mr David Shahnazaryans manner and expertise is outstanding. Whilst in the theatre Dr Lam kept me relaxed and comfortable with her kindness and fantastic professionalism. All the staff at CFS from the admin team, reception, clinic and theatre were excellent. I recommend them to everyone.
Laser Lens Replacement
Laser Lens Replacement
karen ryan
Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses
I had Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses for both eyes and the results are just amazing. The thorough testing and information I received pre and post operative was excellent. I highly recommend Mr Sheraz Daya who in my opinion is an “eye god” his lovely wife and highly professional team to anyone seeking this type of surgery.
Laser Lens Replacement
Susan Gifford
Professional Actor
5* Lens Replacement Procedure
I had tri focal lens replacement, both eyes done on the same day by Mr Daya. I wish I’d had it done sooner, it’s totally life changing. I researched the procedure for many months and selected Centre for Sight and I’m so glad I did. The whole process is first class from the very first contact, the initial tests could not be more thorough and the procedure is totally painless. The whole team could not be more helpful, I cannot praise them enough. I have perfect all round vision now so if you’re considering having the procedure done then this is definitely the place to choose you won’t regret it
Laser Lens Replacement
Jayne Chandler
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About Centre for Sight
Linda Lothian - Corneal Transplant Patient
Certifications & Recognition
The Power List 2026
Global Top 50: Mr. Sheraz Daya
Top 1% Surgeons
National recognition
CQC Accredited
Highest safety standards
5-Star Rated
Patient satisfaction